Kansas City residents can expect a temporary respite from the rain Thursday before the potential for severe thunderstorms arrives Friday. The National Weather Service has declared Friday an Alert Day due to the elevated risk of hazardous weather conditions, including large hail, damaging winds and even the possibility of tornadoes.
After a cloudy Wednesday with lows in the low 40s, Thursday will bring a welcome change with sunshine and warmer temperatures, reaching the mid- to upper 60s. Although, commuters should be aware of the potential for morning fog, which could reduce visibility. This brief period of calm will precede a more unsettled weather pattern as two rounds of storms are forecast to impact the region Friday.
The first round of storms is expected to move through Thursday night into early Friday morning, bringing scattered rain, and thunderstorms. While these initial storms aren’t currently predicted to be severe, they could influence the development of the second, more potent round later in the day. Meteorologists are closely monitoring the speed at which the first round of storms exits the area, as a slower departure could limit the intensity of the subsequent storms.
Two Rounds of Storms Expected Friday
The primary concern centers around the second round of storms, anticipated to arrive in the late afternoon and evening on Friday. These storms have the potential to become severe, with the possibility of large hail, damaging wind gusts, and isolated tornadoes. Winds will be strong, with gusts potentially reaching 35 miles per hour, adding to the hazardous conditions. Temperatures will climb into the low 70s ahead of the storms, creating a humid environment that could fuel their development.
According to forecasts, thunderstorms could initially develop in Oklahoma and south-central Kansas late Friday evening before moving toward Kansas City. While these storms may weaken as they approach, the potential for severe weather remains significant. Residents may experience rumbles of thunder early Friday morning as the first round of storms passes through.
Weekend Outlook and Beyond
Fortunately, the severe weather threat is expected to subside by the weekend, with sunshine returning on Saturday and Sunday. Highs will reach the mid-50s on Saturday and climb closer to 70 degrees on Sunday. The start of the new week will likewise be pleasant, with highs in the low to mid-70s on Monday and Tuesday.
However, another chance of storms is in the forecast for Tuesday, potentially becoming an “impact day” if the chances continue to increase. Following Tuesday’s potential storms, cooler and drier weather is expected to arrive on Wednesday and persist for the remainder of the week, with highs in the 50s and low 60s.
Daylight Saving Time begins early Sunday morning, so residents should remember to set their clocks forward one hour.
Preparing for Severe Weather
Given the potential for severe weather on Friday, it’s crucial for residents to have multiple ways to receive weather alerts. Staying informed is key to ensuring safety during hazardous conditions. The KMBC 9 First Alert Weather team will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves.
Here’s a quick look at the forecast for the next several days:
- Thursday: Partly cloudy, with highs in the mid- to upper 60s. Possible morning fog.
- Friday: Alert Day. Two rounds of storms expected. Highs in the low 70s. All hazards possible (large hail, damaging wind, tornadoes).
- Saturday: Sunny, with highs in the mid-50s.
- Sunday: Sunny, with highs near 70 degrees.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, with highs near 80 degrees.
- Tuesday: Chance of thunderstorms.
- Wednesday: Cooler and drier.
The greatest threats on Friday are expected to be damaging winds and potential tornadoes, particularly between 5 and 11 p.m. The region is currently under a medium risk for severe weather.
As always, stay tuned to KMBC 9 News for the latest updates and information on this developing weather situation.
Please share this information with your friends and family to help ensure everyone stays safe during this potentially hazardous weather event.
