Warning issued as ‘intense southerly winds’ could gust to 65 mph in Kansas City area
Strong, damaging winds are expected to blow through the Kansas City area Wednesday, bringing gusts as high as 65 mph to some locations, according to the National Weather Service in Kansas City.
Because of the threat, the weather service placed the Kansas City metro area as well as portions of Kansas and Missouri under a high wind warning that is in effect from 9 a.m. to midnight.
Winds of 30 to 40 mph are expected with higher gusts possible. Although the strongest winds are expected across northwest Missouri, gusts could peak around 50 mph in Lee’s Summit, Olathe and Kansas City and near 60 mph in Leavenworth, according to the weather service.
“Intense southerly winds increase through the afternoon,” the weather service said in its forecast discussion.
The winds could blow down trees and power lines, creating widespread power outages. Driving will also be difficult, especial for trucks, vans, SUV and other high profile vehicles.
“People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches,” the weather service said in its warning. “If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive.”
The winds are expected to diminish Wednesday evening as a cold front moves through the area, the weather service said. A line of thunderstorms, however, could develop along the cold front, bringing damaging winds.
In advance of the winds, Kansas City will continue to see near record high temperatures. Kansas City is expected to reach the low 60s on Tuesday. The record high temperature for Dec. 14 is 67, set in 1933. The metro makes another run at record temperatures, with a high of 72 expected Wednesday. The record for Dec. 15 is 68 degrees set in 2002.
The warmest December temperature for Kansas City is 74 degrees, set on Dec. 3, 2012, Dec. 5, 2001 and Dec. 6, 1939.
This story was originally published December 14, 2021 at 8:31 AM.
