Summer-like heat and humidity will make their first appearance this season in Kansas City this week as heat index values are expected to rise above 100 degrees, the National Weather Service said.
However, the week is off to a pleasant start as temperatures can reach around 80 degrees under sunny skies. Normally, Kansas City sees temperatures of 83 degrees this time of year.
Warming begins Tuesday as temperatures are expected to climb into the mid-80s. As moisture enters the area, humidity will also begin to rise.
A weak cold front is expected to move toward northern Missouri, which could lead to some isolated showers over northwest Missouri. Dry conditions should prevail elsewhere, the weather service said in its forecast discussion.
The humidity increases, the temperature rises
Wednesday afternoon, temperatures will climb into the low to mid 90s for most locations in the forecast area in Kansas City. This would be Kansas City’s first 90 degree day of the year.
According to climate data, Kansas City’s first 90 degree day of the year typically falls around May 27. The temperature came close last week when it rose to 89 degrees on Friday.
The weather will also become more humid as dew points are expected to reach lows into the mid-60s.
In general, the weather feels dry and comfortable when summer dew points are 55 degrees or less. Between the ages of 55 and 65 it feels “sticky” and stuffy again. Above 65, the humidity in the air makes it feel oppressive, the weather service said.
The metro won’t see much relief from the heat as temperatures will remain in the mid-70s overnight.
The hottest day looks to be Thursday as temperatures are expected to climb into the mid-nineties, with some locations in northeastern Kansas and northwestern Missouri seeing temperatures soar above 90 degrees.
It will also be steamy, which will make it feel even hotter. If you include humidity, the heat index will be between 100 and 105 degrees in some locations. Dew points are expected to be in the upper 60s to near 70 degrees.
Severe weather returns
A few strong to severe storms are possible along an approaching cold front Thursday afternoon and evening, especially over northern Missouri. In Kansas City there is a small chance of rain in the evening.
The hot and well above normal temperatures should continue through the weekend. The weather service said temperatures will be in the low 90s on Friday and Saturday and in the mid 90s on Sunday.
There is also a chance of rain and thunderstorms on Saturday and Sunday. The extended outlook indicates that temperatures will be above average and precipitation will be near normal by mid-June.
