First winter storm strikes Kansas City, covering roads with snow. How much is likely?
A fast-moving winter storm brought light snow to Kansas City on Saturday morning, and multiple inches are likely as the snow continues into the afternoon in the metro.
The snow, which has already covered parts of the metro’s roads and highways, could affect post-Thanksgiving holiday travel and shopping. According to the Kansas City Scout traffic management system, average highway speeds in the Northland have dropped below 30 mph.
A winter weather advisory is in effect until 5 p.m. along Interstate 70, where a band of the heaviest snow is expected. The National Weather Service said Kansas City could see up to 2 inches of snow, while areas east of the metro into central Missouri could see as much as 5 inches.
Road conditions deteriorating in KC
The weather service said drivers should plan for slippery roads if venturing out.
“Remember to slow down and use caution while driving in snowy conditions,” the weather service said. “Plan extra time to travel or consider altering travel plans.”
The Raytown fire department issued a similar warning on X, formerly Twitter.
“As we see our first snowfall of the season; the roads just might be a little slick,” the Raytown Fire Protection District said. “Please give yourself plenty of time to make it to your destination safely, have your headlights turned on and give yourself plenty of room to stop between you & the vehicle in front of you.”
The Missouri Highway Patrol’s Troop A, which includes the Kansas City area, said in a post shortly after 10 a.m. on X that troopers were working a significant amount of weather-related calls.
The snow is expected to taper off from west to east by 5 p.m.
Kansas City said it was prepared for the small amount of snow. Crews started treating roads and bridges Saturday morning and would begin salting and plowing if the snow falls.
Cold temperatures linger in the metro
Saturday’s temperatures will range from the low 30s in northern Missouri to the mid-30s in Kansas City and the mid-40s south of Kansas City. This is colder than usual for this time of year when Kansas City typically sees temperatures in the upper 40s.
The cold weather will linger for a few days, with daytime temperatures hovering around freezing and dropping into the teens and low 20s overnight on Sunday and Monday. The weather service said wind chills will make it feel even colder, dropping into the single digits to teens through Tuesday morning.
Warmer weather is expected to move in on Tuesday, with temperatures climbing to the 40s and 50s for the middle of next week. The weather service said the next weather system will move through the area during the second half of the week, bringing another blast of cold weather into the weekend.
This story was originally published November 30, 2024 at 9:22 AM.
