Weather News

Storm expected to become Helene and a major hurricane. How will it affect the KC area?

A few light showers and thunderstorms coming from the northwest will slide through the Kansas City area Tuesday afternoon and evening, according to the National Weather Service. After a mid-week break, widespread rain chances return for the weekend.
A few light showers and thunderstorms coming from the northwest will slide through the Kansas City area Tuesday afternoon and evening, according to the National Weather Service. After a mid-week break, widespread rain chances return for the weekend. National Weather Service in Kansas City

Fall-like weather has settled across the Kansas City area as slightly cooler than average temperatures are likely Tuesday, along with afternoon showers, according to the National Weather Service.

Fog has settled over southern and northern parts of the Kansas City metro, limiting visibility for those heading out on their morning commute and errands. The weather service urged drivers to use caution during their morning trips.

A few light showers and thunderstorms coming from the northwest will slide through the area Tuesday afternoon and evening. The weather service said no flooding or severe weather is expected.

“Increased cloud coverage will help to keep us away from any serious temperature swings,” the weather service said. “Highs across the area for today are anticipated to stay in the low to mid-70s.”

In Kansas City, temperatures are expected to be around 73 degrees. Typically, the metro sees temperatures around 76 degrees this time of year.

“Expect tomorrow to be a pleasant, partly cloudy day with an occasional light breeze and highs in the mid-70s,” the weather service said.

Wednesday should be sunny and dry, with temperatures in the mid-70s.

Local Radar Image

Helene and soggy weekend weather ahead for Kansas City

Sunny and near-normal temperatures are expected on Thursday. However, the weather service said remnants of Tropical Cyclone Nine, which is expected to turn into Tropical Storm Helene before becoming a major hurricane early this week, will move into the area.

The system is expected to move across the northwestern Caribbean Sea Tuesday night and then over the eastern Gulf of Mexico on Wednesday and Thursday, according to the National Weather Service’s Hurricane Center.

“This tropical system is expected to bring a sizable amount of moisture, making extensive cloud coverage and widespread showers possible through the weekend,” the weather service said.

There will be chances for isolated to scattered thunderstorms, mainly in the eastern portions of the Kansas City forecast area. If they do develop, the weather service said there may be a chance for a “few efficient rain-producing storms.”

The weather service said flooding concerns remain minimal due to uncertainty in the tropical system’s track.

This story was originally published September 24, 2024 at 7:42 AM.

Robert A. Cronkleton
The Kansas City Star
Robert A. Cronkleton is a breaking news reporter for The Kansas City Star, covering crime, courts, transportation, weather and climate. He’s been at The Star for 36 years. His skills include multimedia and data reporting and video and audio editing. Support my work with a digital subscription
Get unlimited digital access
#ReadLocal

Try 1 month for $1

CLAIM OFFER