KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI — Residents in Clay and Platte counties were urged to take shelter early Saturday morning as a severe thunderstorm warning brought quarter-sized hail and strong wind gusts up to 60 mph through parts of the Kansas City metro area, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued Overnight
The NWS issued the warning at 2:42 a.m., noting that the storm was located over Weatherby Lake and moving east at 40 mph. The alert remained in effect until 3:00 a.m.
“Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage to roofs, siding, and trees,” the agency warned in its statement.
Areas affected included Kansas City, Gladstone, Parkville, Platte City, Riverside, Smithville, and surrounding communities. The warning also covered major highways — Interstate 29, I-635, and I-435 — where visibility and driving conditions were expected to deteriorate rapidly.
Storm Hazards: Hail and Strong Winds
Meteorologists reported that the storms were capable of producing hail up to one inch in diameter, posing a threat to vehicles and outdoor property. Winds near 60 mph also raised the risk of downed branches and minor structural damage…