For the second consecutive day, torrential rain pounded Kansas City on Thursday, overwhelming roadways, prompting water rescues, and tying a 137-year-old rainfall record.
Strong to severe storms swept across eastern Kansas and western Missouri early Thursday, dumping over 2 inches of rain for a second day in a row, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). This marks just the 12th time in recorded history that Kansas City has seen back-to-back days with more than 2 inches of rainfall.
The heavy rain prompted a Flash Flood Warning until 9 a.m. CT for areas east of Kansas City. Major highways, including Interstate 70, Highway 169, and Interstate 435 at 23rd Street, were submerged in floodwaters, with Missouri Department of Transportation cameras showing vehicles nearly underwater.
The Kansas City Fire Department performed 18 water rescues by 5:30 a.m., with efforts continuing into the morning. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol also assisted stranded drivers as flooding led to significant delays across the metro area.
Officials urge residents to avoid flooded roadways and continue monitoring weather alerts, as more rain could compound the already dangerous conditions.
