Update: Flash flood warning issued for the Kansas City area Sunday morning
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On Sunday at 5:56 a.m. an updated flash flood warning was issued by the National Weather Service in effect until 8:30 a.m. The warning is for Johnson, Leavenworth, Wyandotte, Clay and Platte counties.
"At 5:56 a.m., emergency management reported flash flooding across the warned area. State Route 5 in Leavenworth County is inundated with water near Seven Mile Creek. Additional flooding is likely in the warning area. Between 1 and 3.5 inches of rain have fallen. Additional rainfall amounts up to 1 inch are possible in the warned area," says 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, Overland Park, Olathe, Shawnee, Lenexa, Leavenworth, Leawood, Prairie Village, Lansing, Merriam, Mission, Smithville, Bonner Springs, De Soto, Parkville, Tonganoxie, Platte City and Basehor.
The NWS states, "Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles."
This warning is in effect until 8:30 a.m.
Protect yourself during a flood with these tips from the NWS
If you live in a flood-prone area or are camping in a low-lying area, get to higher ground immediately. If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Lock your home when you leave. If you have time, disconnect utilities and appliances. Don't go into a basement, or any room, if water covers the electrical outlets or if cords are submerged. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping noises, get out. Stay out of water that may have electricity in it. Don't walk through flood waters. It only takes 6 inches of moving water to knock you off your feet. If you are trapped by moving water, move to the highest possible point and call 911 if possible.
When heavy rain occurs, there is a potential for flooding, particularly in areas that are low-lying or prone to floods. It is crucial to never drive through water on the road, even if it appears shallow. According to the NWS, as little as 12 inches of fast-flowing water can carry away most vehicles.
What steps to follow when driving in the rain?
- 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.
- Don't tail large vehicles closely - Trucks or buses can kick up a water spray that obstructs visibility.
- Steer clear of flooded areas - When coming to a flooded road, turn around and head back. Flash flooding currents are strong and can sweep drivers off roadways. Driving through deep water can also affect a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.
What is hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning is the term for when a vehicle begins 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 21, 2026 at 4:45 AM.