Kansas City, MO – Cold air drifts across the metro this morning, and a gray haze sits low over the skyline — the first real hint that winter weather is closing in. After a calm start, the Midwest is bracing for a sharp shift late Friday as a storm system slides in from the Plains, bringing a messy mix of rain and snow across Missouri and eastern Kansas through Saturday.
Meteorologists with the National Weather Service in Kansas City–Pleasant Hill warn of potential travel issues beginning this evening, especially north and east of the metro area. Rain develops after 5 p.m., then transitions to a rain-snow mix by early Saturday, as colder air pushes in behind the system. Areas north of I-70 — including St. Joseph and Chillicothe — could pick up 1 to 3 inches of snow, while lighter totals are expected closer to Kansas City.
Temperatures will fall from the low 40s today into the 20s by Saturday night, creating slick spots on bridges and elevated roads. Gusts up to 30 mph could briefly reduce visibility during snow showers. Plan for slower travel on I-35, US-36, and US-65 through Saturday morning.
Sunday offers a cold but calmer finish to the weekend, with partly sunny skies and highs in the mid-20s. Looking ahead, another December cold snap is on track for next week, keeping highs below freezing across much of the central Plains.
5-Day Outlook (Kansas City, MO)
Friday: Mostly cloudy, light rain developing late, high 42°F.
Saturday: Rain to snow, gusty winds, high 42°F early, low 21°F.
Sunday: Partly sunny, high 26°F.
Monday: Chance of snow, high 26°F.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high 35°F.
