Chilly Days Ahead: Kansas City Prepares for Wintry Weather

Chilly Days Ahead: Kansas City Prepares for Wintry Weather

Get ready, Kansas City! A cold weather system is making its way toward our beloved region, and it looks like we’re in for some brisk temperatures and gusty winds. The National Weather Service has issued a friendly reminder that Wednesday will bring freezing temperatures and winds that could whip up to 30 mph. Bundle up, folks, because things are about to get chilly!

What to Expect on Wednesday

On Wednesday, expect to experience below-average temperatures, only reaching a high of around 35 degrees. For a bit of context, the usual temperature for this time of year typically hovers around 43 degrees. The day is starting off cold—with the temperature at Kansas City International Airport measured at 30 degrees at 7 a.m. The wind chill, though, will make it feel more like a brisk 19 degrees.

The sunny skies might look inviting, but it’s important to remember the cold northwest winds that will be chilling us to the bone. According to the weather service, “Breezy northwest winds today producing wind chills generally in the teens,” so keeping cozy is essential!

Looking Ahead to Thursday

As we wake up Thursday morning, there’s a warm front on the horizon! This front is expected to lift northward across the southern plains, potentially reaching Interstate 70 late in the day. That means a temperature shift is on the way. The Kansas City area can expect temperatures to rise closer to the 40-degree mark, providing relief from the bone-chilling weather we’ve been experiencing.

However, brace yourselves for a stark contrast in temperatures along this front. While those basking in the warmth south of the front might enjoy readings in the 40s and 50s, anyone north of the front will be stuck in sub-freezing conditions. So, whether you’re planning on heading north or south, be prepared for those weather shifts!

Drizzle and Rain on the Way

As if that wasn’t enough, a weather system approaching from the west may also bring some drizzle or freezing drizzle to the region. While you might think the Kansas City area could dodge any significant icing, there’s still a slight chance of seeing some precipitation—about a 10% to 20% likelihood of light wintery mix hitting the area. The best chance for more serious icing seems to be locations near the Iowa border.

Don’t worry too much, though! As temperatures rise throughout the day on Thursday, any freezing drizzle is expected to turn to rain as we head into the evening.

What About the Weekend?

Looking ahead to Friday, temperatures are set to climb into the comfy upper 40s to near 50 degrees, offering a nice break from the chill. And if you love sunshine, you’re in luck! The weekend preview is looking bright! Saturday is predicted to bring partly to mostly sunny skies, with temperatures hitting around 47 degrees. Sunday will be even warmer, reaching into the low 50s.

Another Weather System on the Horizon?

It seems that just when we thought the weather would stabilize, another system is predicted to roll in on Monday. But don’t worry—Kansas City looks to be on the warmer side of things, which means we should see predominantly rain instead of any wintry mix!

So there you have it, Kansas City! As we gear up for this chilly weather, make sure to grab your coats and stay warm. Don’t let the cold get you down; instead, enjoy some hot cocoa and take in the beautiful sights of winter in our city!