Kansas City’s stormiest spring? Why so many thunderstorms, tornadoes are hitting lately
Severe weather has pummeled the Kansas City area in the last few weeks, and this weekend could bring even more storms. The National Weather Service explains why this spring’s weather has been exceptionally active.
Both Kansas and Missouri received large amounts of rain from Friday through Tuesday – 3.9 inches at the Kansas City International Airport. And the sky turned yellow Tuesday night, as the Kansas City area was placed under a severe thunderstorm warning for almost an hour.
Tuesday night, one person was killed and at least 22 homes destroyed when a tornado ripped through Westmoreland, Kansas, located northwest of Topeka.
Throughout March and April, the Kansas City area experienced various storms with up to 70 mph winds and up to half dollar-sized hail.
Is there more severe weather in spring 2024 than previous years?
Yes. So far in 2024, the National Weather Service Kansas City has issued 22 tornado warnings and 136 severe thunderstorm warnings across their service area, from eastern Kansas to eastern Missouri’s Iowa border.
This is significantly higher than average — in a typical year, the NWS Kansas City typically sees 27 tornado warnings and 219 severe thunderstorm warnings from January through December.
2014 was the most recent year that came close to 2024’s numbers, with nine tornado warnings and 85 severe thunderstorm warnings by April 31.
Why is this?
Turbulence in the atmosphere contributes to severe weather — the same thing that can make your airplane rides bumpy.
This spring, the jet stream has been near the Kansas City area more than usual, said NWS meteorologist Alex Krull. This atmospheric phenomenon tends to bring severe weather to the places it passes over, which can range from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico.
Are the tornadoes and storms this spring caused by climate change?
Meteorologists cannot tell if a particular storm is caused by global warming, NWS meteorologist Hallie Boza said, “but as the climate changes, we are going to see more frequent severe weather.”
Weather watches and warnings
A live data feed from the National Weather Service containing official weather warnings, watches, and advisory statements. Tap warning areas for more details. Sources: NOAA, National Weather Service, NOAA GeoPlatform and Esri.
Do you have more questions about weather in the Kansas City area? Ask the Service Journalism team at kcq@kcstar.com.
