Kansas City/ Weather & Environment

Stormy Start, Steamy Finish: Thunderstorms Could Complicate Kansas City Morning Commute

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Published on August 19, 2026
Stormy Start, Steamy Finish: Thunderstorms Could Complicate Kansas City Morning CommuteSource: Johannes Plenio / Unsplash

Kansas City is waking up to a stormy Wednesday, with showers and thunderstorms expected through the morning before the weather settles down. The strongest storms could bring heavy rain, gusty winds and hail.

Rain chances remain highest through midday, with approximately 1.5 to 2 inches possible in parts of Atchison and Leavenworth counties as storms move eastward. The National Weather Service says additional downpours could affect the metro as storms move east from areas that have already received heavier rain.

Morning Storms Could Complicate The Commute

Showers and thunderstorms are expected through midday, with additional showers and thunderstorms possible during the afternoon and evening, primarily north of the Missouri River. Heavy rainfall and possible flooding could affect Wednesday driving.

The forecast discussion also notes that damaging winds and hail remain possible in stronger storms. No watches, warnings or advisories are listed for Missouri or Kansas in the supplied forecast, but residents should still head indoors when thunder is heard and avoid driving through standing water.

KC Water annual financial reports are identified in the available materials. The available materials also discuss KC Water projects and stormwater management. The U.S. Geological Survey's Historical Flooding page documents a past September 12-13 Kansas City flood during which heavy rainfall fell across parts of Missouri and Iowa.

A Gradual Warming Trend Later In The Week

Wednesday night should turn cooler, with additional storm chances possible. A warming trend is expected later in the week.

Additional storm chances are possible during the week.