Update: Flash flood warning in place for the Kansas City area Thursday morning
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On Thursday at 8:01 a.m. an updated flash flood warning was released by the National Weather Service in effect until 9:45 a.m. The warning is for Johnson, Leavenworth, Wyandotte, Clay, Jackson, Platte and Cass counties.
"At 8:01 a.m., reports of flash flooding of flood prone areas continue across the warned area. Between 1.5 and 3 inches of rain have fallen. Flooding impacts will continue, but significant additional rainfall is not expected this morning. Flash flooding is already occurring," 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, Overland Park, Olathe, Independence, Lee's Summit, Shawnee, Lenexa, Leawood, Raytown, Grandview, Belton, Prairie Village, Raymore, Gardner, Lansing, Merriam, Mission, Bonner Springs and De Soto.
The NWS states, "Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles."
This warning is in effect until 9:45 a.m.
Protect yourself during a flood with these tips from the NWS
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 rain, flooding is possible, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear to be deep. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, according to the NWS.
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.
- On the road - Drive in the middle lanes and stay on high ground. Rainwater tends to stockpile on the edges of roads.
- Steer clear of puddles - Driving into puddles or low areas of rainwater can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control.
- Maintain a safe distance from large vehicles - Trucks or buses can produce a water spray that hampers 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 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 primarily caused by 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
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This story was originally published July 9, 2026 at 6:51 AM.