Overview
- Thunderstorms are moving into the Kansas City area this evening and are expected to be most widespread around midnight, raising the chance of severe weather overnight.
- A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect through 4 a.m. for counties on both sides of the state line, including Johnson, Leavenworth, Wyandotte, Miami, Linn and Atchison in Kansas and Jackson, Clay, Platte, Cass, Ray, Lafayette, Johnson, Bates and Henry in Missouri.
- The main hazards are damaging straight-line winds and possible large hail, with heavy rain of roughly 0.5 to 2 inches and locally higher amounts that could cause localized flooding where storms linger or train over the same area.
- Forecasters expect the greatest threat through about 4 a.m., with storms gradually weakening between 4 a.m. and sunrise but with lingering showers that may leave wet roads and standing water for the morning commute.
- Late-summer night storms often form in clusters that produce strong winds and flash flooding, so residents should secure outdoor items, avoid flooded roads, monitor local updates, and allow extra travel time.