Severe Weather Hits Kansas and Missouri: What You Need to Know
Good evening, folks! If you’re in the Kansas City area, especially in parts of Kansas and Missouri, you might have noticed the wild weather rolling through earlier tonight. It certainly turned into quite the event for those watching the skies and seeing the storm clouds gather.
Thunderstorm Warnings Issued
The National Weather Service (NWS) has been keeping a close eye on the weather conditions, and around 8:20 PM, they got things started by issuing a severe thunderstorm warning. The warning initially covered counties like Atchison and Doniphan in Kansas, along with Andrew, Buchanan, Clinton, DeKalb, and Platte in Missouri. Folks were advised to stay alert until at least 8:45 PM.
As the storms rolled onward, they didn’t seem to pack quite as much punch anymore. By 8:10 PM, reports suggested that the severe storms were showing signs of weakening as they pushed further east, easing some of the tension for those worrying about the worst coming to their doorstep.
The Situation Escalates
Fast forward to 9:30 PM, and things got a little more serious again. The NWS expanded the warnings to also include Johnson, Leavenworth, and Wyandotte counties in Kansas and multiple counties in Missouri, including Caldwell, Clay, Clinton, Jackson, Lafayette, Platte, and Ray. The storm was making its way towards Missouri with winds reaching up to 70 MPH and quarter-size hail, which definitely wasn’t something people wanted to see!
Road Closures and Safety Precautions
As the night progressed, around 9:50 PM, it was reported that Missouri 291 was closed between Liberty Drive and Kansas Street due to downed power lines. This is a good reminder to everyone to avoid driving through such areas since it can be dangerous. If you’re out and about, always keep an eye on local reports and road conditions.
Warnings Wrap Up, But Stay Cautious
By 10:20 PM, it seemed like we were starting to get a little breather as the NWS let the severe thunderstorm warnings expire for several counties, including Wyandotte County in Kansas and multiple counties in Missouri. It looks like the worst of it has passed, but if you live in these areas, it’s smart to stay alert and be prepared for anything that might still roll in.
Final Thoughts for a Stormy Night
These storms can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to stay vigilant, especially if you live in areas prone to severe weather. Make sure you have your emergency kit ready and a way to receive alerts, whether it’s a weather app or a NOAA weather radio. For tonight, though, let’s hope for clear skies above as we settle in and wind down from what has been an eventful evening.
Stay safe and cozy, Kansas City!
