Flash flood warning active for the Kansas City area until Monday morning
The creation of this content included the use of AI based on templates created, reviewed and edited by journalists in the newsroom. Read more on our AI policy here.
On Monday at 1:58 a.m. a flash flood warning was released by the National Weather Service in effect until 8 a.m. The warning is for Wyandotte, Clay and Platte counties.
"At 1:58 a.m., Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. Between 2 and 3 inches of rain have fallen. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly," explains the NWS. "Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas."
Locations impacted by the warning include Kansas City, Liberty, Gladstone, Parkville, North Kansas City, Riverside, Weatherby Lake, Claycomo, Kansas City Intl Arpt, Pleasant Valley, Lake Waukomis, Glenaire, Ferrelview, Avondale, Platte Woods, Oakview, Northmoor, Houston Lake and Oakwood Park.
According to the NWS, "Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles."
This warning is in effect until 8 a.m.
Recommendations from the NWS for staying safe during a flood
For either residents or campers of flood-prone, low-lying areas, take immediate action and seek higher ground. Follow evacuation instructions without delay. If time permits, lock your home upon departure and disconnect utilities and appliances. Avoid entering basements or rooms where electrical outlets or cords are submerged in water. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping sounds, evacuate the area immediately. Refrain from entering water that may have electricity in it and avoid walking through floodwaters. Even 6 inches of moving water can pose a serious risk of knocking you off your feet. If you find yourself trapped by moving water, move to the highest possible point and contact emergency services, and dial 911.
During heavy rainfall, there is a risk of flooding, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Remember to never drive through water on the road, even if it seems shallow. According to the NWS, as little as 12 inches of rapidly flowing water can carry away most cars.
What to do in the rain on the road?
- Turn on headlights - Even in daylight, using headlights can help improve visibility and let other drivers know where you are.
- While on the road - Opt for the middle lanes and remain on higher ground. Rainwater tends to gather along the road edges.
- Avoid puddles - Driving into puddles or low rainwater areas can lead to vehicles hydroplaning or losing control.
- Give ample space to large vehicles - Trucks or buses can create a water spray that diminishes visibility.
- Avoid flooded zones - If you encounter a flooded road, make a U-turn and go back. The powerful currents of flash floods can carry drivers off the road. Driving through deep water can also damage a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.
What is hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning happens when a vehicle starts sliding uncontrollably on wet roads.
This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle's weight can push water out of the way. The water pressure then causes the vehicle to rise and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, making the driver lose control. Hydroplaning is most commonly attributed to three factors:
- Vehicle speed - When a vehicle's speed increases, the tire-traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decreases. Drive at a reduced speed during wet weather.
- Water depth - The deeper the water, the sooner a vehicle loses traction on the road. It doesn't matter how deep the water is, even a thin layer can lead to hydroplaning.
- Tire tread depth - Checking your tire tread before hitting the road is important, as low or no tread can lead to sliding.
In the event of your vehicle hydroplaning, here's what to know:
- Ease off the accelerator - Step off the gas to slow down the vehicle until the tires find traction.
- Turn into the skid - Turning into the skid can help the vehicle's tires realign to regain control.
- Make sure the tires reconnect with the road - During the skid, wait until the tires reconnect with the road and then gently straighten the wheels to regain control.
- Brake gently as needed - Brake normally if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes and pump brakes gently if in an older vehicle.
Source: The National Weather Service
United Robots Kansas City
This story was originally published June 1, 2026 at 2:02 AM.