Kansas City, Missouri, August 3, 2025
News Summary
Kansas City is grappling with an exceptionally humid summer, with locals describing it as one of the most uncomfortable seasons in over a decade. The increase in humidity is attributed to the Bermuda High pressure system and climate change, which allows for greater moisture retention in the atmosphere. Despite temperatures peaking at 96 degrees, it’s the high dew points, reaching into the 80s, that have intensified discomfort. The National Weather Service advises residents to take precautions against the heat as health risks rise due to extreme temperatures and humidity.
Kansas City is experiencing a summer marked by soaring humidity, leaving residents feeling as though they are enveloped in oppressive conditions. Reports from locals indicate that this summer is shaping up to be one of the most uncomfortable seasons in over a decade, primarily due to high humidity levels rather than extreme heat.
Weather experts point out that the Bermuda High pressure system and the impact of climate change are primarily responsible for the heightened humidity, as these factors allow the atmosphere to retain more moisture. While July temperatures averaged approximately 79.5 degrees, which is about 1.5 degrees above normal, the discomfort has largely stemmed from the high dew points recorded in the area.
This July, Kansas City saw its temperature reaching a peak of 96 degrees, marking it as the 24th coolest “hottest day” within 138 years of temperature records. The last time the city broke the 100-degree mark was on August 25, 2023, when it reached a blistering 103 degrees. This summer, average overnight temperatures hovered around 70.5 degrees—over 2 degrees higher than the typical average of 68.1 degrees.
Humidity and Health Risks
The oppressive feel of the air is largely due to dew point values hitting the 80s, which is making conditions exceptionally sticky. Recorded average daily dew point values in July were noted to be the fourth highest in the past 50 years, intensifying discomfort throughout the metro area. Dew points exceeding 70 degrees typically lead to heavy humidity, contributing further to the surrounding conditions that feel more hazardous. This can lead to significant health risks, as extreme heat remains the most deadly weather hazard in the United States, worsened by ongoing climate change.
The National Weather Service has advised the public to take precautions, including staying hydrated, resting frequently, wearing light clothing, and seeking air-conditioned environments. The month also saw Kansas City receive 9.74 inches of rain, making it the ninth highest rainfall total recorded for July, which is over double the area’s average.
Relief and Future Weather Patterns
As the weekend approaches, Kansas City will see a temporary dip in the heat, with temperatures expected to reach the mid-70s to around 80 degrees. A return to near-normal levels is indicated for the latter part of the following week, but residents should remain prepared for possible heat waves as August progresses. While a phenomenon known as “corn sweat,” contributed by crops in the region, can impact overall humidity, meteorologists believe it is not the principal contributor to the situation in urban areas like Kansas City.
Overall, the combination of increased temperatures, high rainfall amounts, and persistent humidity highlights the changing climate’s impact on local weather patterns, which affects health and daily life in Kansas City.
FAQ
What are the main causes of high humidity in Kansas City this summer?
The primary causes of the high humidity levels are attributed to the Bermuda High pressure system and climate change, which allows the air to hold more moisture.
How high were the dew points in Kansas City this summer?
This summer, dew point values reached into the 80s, marking the fourth highest average daily dew point in the last 50 years.
What temperature relief can residents expect soon?
Residents can expect a temporary relief as temperatures drop to the mid-70s to around 80 degrees, with a return to near-normal levels later in the following week.
What precautions should residents take due to the extreme heat?
It is advised that residents stay hydrated, rest frequently, wear light clothing, and seek air-conditioned spaces whenever possible to mitigate the impacts of the heat.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Average July Temperature | 79.5 degrees |
| Peak Temperature | 96 degrees |
| Last 100-degree Day | August 25, 2023 (103 degrees) |
| Average Dew Point | Fourth highest in 50 years (reached 80s) |
| July Rainfall | 9.74 inches (ninth highest total on record) |
| Overnight Temperature Average | 70.5 degrees |
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Additional Resources
- KMBC: Kansas City Weather – High Heat, Humidity, Cooler Rain Later
- Wikipedia: Humidity
- KCTV5: Dangerous Heat & Humidity Conditions
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Climate Change
- FOX4KC: Humidity Departs, Cool Air Arrives
- Google News: Kansas City Weather
- Axios: Kansas City Impacted by Heat Dome and Corn Sweat
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
