Marina
A devastating thunderstorm tore through the Kansas City metro area on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, bringing hurricane-force winds, tornado threats, and massive disruptions.
The storm, which intensified by the afternoon, led to overturned semi-trucks, major road closures, and widespread power outages—leaving thousands grappling with the aftermath.
Winds Topple Semi-Trucks and Paralyze Traffic
The most dramatic damage was seen on Interstate 435 and I-635, where strong wind gusts flipped multiple semi-trucks.
- On I-435 southbound, a semi was overturned between Raytown Road and Eastwood Trafficway.
- On I-635 southbound at Parallel Parkway in Wyandotte County, another truck was blown over, leading to lane blockages and long delays.
In addition to those incidents, a two-vehicle crash occurred on I-435 just past I-70, closing two left lanes southbound and worsening the traffic situation.
Road Closures Across the Region
In Leavenworth County, K-5 Highway was completely closed in both directions—from Eisenhower Road to East Mary Street near Lansing—due to storm damage.
Local authorities and the Kansas Department of Transportation issued urgent travel advisories, recommending drivers avoid all major highways impacted by the storm.
Widespread Power Outages Reported
The storm knocked out power for thousands across Kansas City. Evergy, the area’s main utility provider, confirmed that tens of thousands of customers experienced service disruptions.
Utility crews were quickly dispatched, working through hazardous conditions to restore electricity.
The table below highlights the power outages and road impacts as of late Tuesday:
| Location | Incident | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| I-435 (Raytown Rd) | Semi-Truck Overturned | Lane closures, standstill traffic |
| I-635 (Parallel Pkwy) | Semi-Truck Overturned | Multiple lanes blocked |
| I-435 at I-70 | Two-Vehicle Crash | Two lanes closed |
| K-5 near Lansing | Full Highway Closure | Northbound and southbound lanes blocked |
| Kansas City Metro Area | Power Outages | Thousands without electricity |
Tornado Warnings and Dramatic Footage
Earlier in the day, tornado warnings were issued throughout the Kansas City area. Although all warnings were canceled later, social media was flooded with videos and photos that showcased the storm’s severity.
One viral post captured the scene on I-435 Southbound at Stadium Drive, showing a traffic standstill and a suspected overturned semi near Raytown Road.
Another user posted a video from Blue Springs, identifying a “confirmed large and dangerous tornado” on the ground.
Though intense, no major injuries have been reported, a fortunate outcome given the storm’s power.
Ongoing Cleanup and Cautions Issued
Emergency response teams have been mobilized across affected counties. City officials and transportation departments are assessing storm damage, while cleanup crews work to clear debris and restore safe travel conditions.
Authorities strongly urge residents to:
- Avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
- Monitor updates from the National Weather Service and local traffic systems.
- Report downed power lines or hazards to relevant agencies.
The June 3rd Kansas City storm serves as a powerful reminder of how fast severe weather can upend daily life. With trucks overturned, roads closed, and power outages affecting thousands, recovery efforts are now underway.
Residents are advised to stay alert, safe, and connected to official updates as the community begins to rebuild.