Could thunderstorms affect your July 4 plans? When the rain will return to Kansas City
Rounds of rain are expected in Kansas City in the next couple of days as thunderstorms, some strong to severe, sweep across the area, possibly spoiling some July 4 celebrations, the National Weather Service said Wednesday.
Overnight storms have moved east of Kansas City, leaving behind mostly cloudy skies. Temperatures are expected in the mid- to upper 80s, which is typical for this time of year in the metro.
“Most areas should remain rain-free through at least midday to early afternoon,” the weather service said in its forecast discussion.
Showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop late afternoon or evening in parts of Kansas and Missouri and continue into the morning of Independence Day.
The weather service said there is a low probability of severe weather, although there is potential for heavy rain in west-central and central Missouri in the evening.
The weather service said runoff from the heavy rains, combined with ongoing river flooding, may lead to new flooding concerns.
Severe weather in July 4 forecast
The probability of severe weather is higher on Independence Day, the weather service said. Rain showers and isolated thunderstorms will likely begin the day, and temperatures will climb into the mid- to upper 80s.
A cold front is expected to move through the area during the afternoon and evening, bringing the chance for strong to severe storms. The weather service said the forecast is uncertain due to morning storms and the timing and location of the cold front.
“Still, assuming some destabilization, which is quite reasonable this time of year, the environment will support strong to severe storms,” the weather service said.
The southeast half of the Kansas City forecast region is most likely to experience severe weather. Large hail and damaging straight-line winds will be the primary hazards. The anticipated progressive movement of the storms on Thursday may lessen flash flooding concerns.
The weather service said that near to slightly below normal temperatures are expected to finish the week, with at least Friday and Saturday being quiet, allowing the metro area to dry out.
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