Will July 4 fireworks be rained out in Kansas City? Here’s what weather forecasts say
Families around the Kansas City metro are preparing for Fourth of July celebrations — and volatile Midwestern weather can make planning difficult.
Several municipalities have already canceled or postponed their fireworks shows due to weather concerns. Heavy rain has hit the metro over the past few days, and previous forecasts predicted thunderstorms Thursday as well.
But as of Thursday morning, the heavy rain seen over the last few days in Kansas City appears to have moved out of the area. Instead, most forecasts predict cloudy conditions with a few scattered showers throughout the day, but anticipate the clouds to clear out by sundown— just in time for the fireworks.
Here’s a closer look at what various weather forecasters predict for Independence Day.
Will it rain today in Kansas City?
While the metro remains under a flood warning until 8 p.m. and a flood watch until 1 a.m, various weather sources disagree on whether, or how much, it will rain in Kansas City today.
According to the National Weather Service, there is a 40% chance of rain today and a 30% chance of rain tonight. The agency lists “a chance of showers and thunderstorms” before 10 p.m.
The Weather Channel forecasts isolated thunderstorms around 5 p.m. However, no rain is predicted for later this evening, when many fireworks shows will go ahead as planned.
Accuweather predicts thunderstorms at around 4 p.m. with a 61% chance of rain. It forecasts these storms ending quickly, but returning around 8 p.m. with a 51% chance of rain. However, most other forecasts don’t anticipate rain in the evening.
Finally, Apple’s weather app shows just a 30% chance of thunderstorms between 5 and 6 p.m. in Kansas City.
Between all these forecasts, the chance of rain in the metro is low and sporadic today.
What other weather is predicted in Kansas City?
All the forecasts reviewed by The Star predict a mostly cloudy day with temperatures in the high 70’s and low 80’s.
But those planning to see the fireworks are in luck: Cloudy conditions are expected to begin clearing out around 8 p.m, with clear skies forecast by 10 p.m.
Sunset time in the metro tonight is 8:48 p.m, meaning that skies should clear up just in time for fireworks displays. The grass may be a little wet wherever you end up, but attendees can rest assured that the chance of being rained on while you watch the show are very low.
Do you have more questions about weather patterns in the Kansas City area? Ask the Service Journalism team at kcq@kcstar.com.
