Downpours could disrupt Kansas City’s outdoor events. Here’s the window to watch
Thunderstorms could crash the party for soccer fans and other outdoor plans Thursday in Kansas City, with rounds of heavy rain and lightning possible from afternoon into evening, according to the National Weather Service.
The timing is still uncertain, but storms are most likely late afternoon into the evening. The best chance for strong storms is between 4 and 9 p.m., and activity may come in waves. The Netherlands plays Tunisia at 6 p.m. in a World Cup match at Kansas City Stadium.
Although the best chance for storms is later in the day, thunderstorms are possible at times throughout Thursday. Temperatures are expected to be around 80 degrees.
The primary hazards will be lightning and heavy rainfall. Strong winds and small hail cannot be ruled out in stronger storms.
The Storm Prediction Center, part of the National Weather Service, has placed the Kansas City area under a marginal risk (Level 1 of 5) of severe weather. Areas south of the metro, including parts of eastern Kansas and west-central Missouri, are under a slight risk (Level 2 of 5).
“A very moist airmass in place will bring the potential for high rainfall rates and flooding with any thunderstorms,” the weather service said.
A flood watch has been issued for areas along and south of I-70 from 1 p.m. through 7 a.m. Friday. Rainfall totals of 2 to 3 inches are expected, with higher amounts possible in some locations.
The weather service advised folks to monitor forecasts and be alert for possible flood warnings.
“Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop,” the weather service said. Drivers are urged to turn around if they encounter flooded roads.
Rain chances continue Friday into Saturday morning, with some storms still capable of heavy downpours. The National Weather Service, however, does not expect to extend the Flood Watch beyond Friday morning.
The next big story is a hot weather pattern that is looming. Heat and humidity are expected to build into the metro area, causing temperatures to climb into the upper 80s Saturday and the low 90s Sunday through at least Wednesday.
Heat index values will likely peak well above 100 degrees each afternoon, the weather service said.
