Storm chances return to KC. Where rain is most likely, and the heat that follows
Thunderstorms are likely to return to the Kansas City area Thursday night, with a few storms possibly becoming strong and bringing heavy rain, according to the National Weather Service. On-and-off rain chances could last through the weekend.
A high-pressure system that’s been over the area is moving east, allowing a new weather system to come in from the Rockies and bring warmer, more humid air. That will help fuel showers and thunderstorms through Friday.
Before storms arrive, temperatures should climb to around 83 degrees in the metro. Dew points, a measure of how much moisture is in the air, are expected to rise into the 60s, making it feel noticeably more humid.
A few scattered showers and storms could pop up Thursday afternoon, but chances increase Thursday night, especially north of Interstate 70.
Northeast Kansas and northwest Missouri have the best chances for strong to severe storms and flash flooding overnight into Friday. A flash flood watch is in effect for parts of northwest Missouri and far northeast Kansas.
The Storm Prediction Center has placed the Kansas City area under a marginal risk (Level 1 of 5) of severe weather. The main threats are heavy rain, lightning, gusty winds and small hail.
Storms may fade Friday morning, then redevelop later in the afternoon if skies clear and the air heats back up. Areas well north of Interstate 70, especially near and north of U.S. 36, have the better chance for severe storms, with parts of far northwest Missouri under a slight risk (Level 2 of 5).
Temperatures should climb into the upper 80s on Friday.
Chances for storms continue through the weekend and into early next week. Severe storm chances appear low at this time.
Hazardous heat might build into the area by the middle of next week, including the possibility of temperatures in the low 90s and heat index values exceeding 100 degrees.
