Weather News

Update: Tornado warning in place for the Kansas City area early Sunday evening

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An updated tornado warning was issued by the National Weather Service on Sunday at 5:05 p.m. in effect until 5:30 p.m. The warning is for Johnson, Miami and Cass counties.

"At 5:04 p.m., a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located near Cleveland, or 8 miles north of Louisburg, moving east at 25 mph," according to the NWS. "Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely."

Locations impacted by the warning include Belton, Raymore, Peculiar, Cleveland and Stilwell. This includes Interstate 49 between mile markers 170 and 176.

Recommended action: Seek shelter

The NWS adds, "Take cover now! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris."

This warning is in effect until 5:30 p.m.

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Ways to protect yourself during a tornado

According to the NWS, acting quickly is key to staying safe during a tornado. Stay tuned to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio for continuous updates on tornado watches and warnings.

  • If you are indoors: If you are in a tornado warning, go to your basement, safe room or an interior room away from windows. Don't forget pets if time allows.
  • If you are at your workplace or school: Follow your tornado drill protocol and make your way to the designated tornado shelter area. Keep away from windows and refrain from seeking shelter in large open rooms like cafeterias, gymnasiums, or auditoriums.
  • If you are outside: If a tornado is approaching, seek immediate shelter inside a secure building. Remember that sheds, storage facilities, mobile homes, and tents are not safe options.
  • If you are in a vehicle: Being inside a vehicle during a tornado is not a safe option. Drive towards the closest shelter. If reaching a safe shelter is not possible, either crouch down in your car and shield your head, or leave your vehicle and find shelter in a ditch or ravine.

Have you put together an emergency kit for tornado scenarios?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends keeping the following items in a basic disaster supplies kit:

  • Water, one gallon per person for at least three days
  • Food, at least a three-day supply
  • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
  • Flashlight
  • First-aid kit
  • Whistle
  • Dust mask to filter contaminated air
  • Plastic sheeting and duct tape, for shelter purposes
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties
  • Manual can opener for food
  • Local maps

Source: The National Weather Service

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This story was originally published April 26, 2026 at 4:25 PM.

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