Tracking the return of summer heat and lingering rain chances

Good morning and happy Friday!

As you're heading out the door this morning, we're starting with mostly cloudy skies, mild temperatures, and dry conditions across much of the area. There could be a little patchy fog in a few spots, but visibility is generally looking good.

We're also watching a few scattered showers and thunderstorms across far northeastern Kansas early this morning. As that system moves east, it's expected to weaken and take more of a southerly track. That means areas west of Hiawatha have the best chance of seeing a few showers, while most of northwest Missouri stays dry.

Temperatures are starting out in the upper 60s this morning and will warm quickly through the day.

By lunchtime, we'll be back into the lower 80s as clouds begin to break for more sunshine. A weak system dropping south from Iowa could bring an isolated shower to our northern counties later today, but for most of us, it'll be another dry afternoon.

Highs will top out around 88 degrees with a mix of sun and clouds. It'll be warm and a bit more humid, so remember to stay hydrated if you're spending time outdoors.

Looking ahead to the weekend, temperatures return to the lower 90s. We'll keep a small chance for an isolated shower or storm Saturday, but most of the day stays dry.

Our best chance for rain comes Sunday as a weak system moves through. Even then, we're not expecting a washout—just a few scattered showers and thunderstorms, mainly during the afternoon and evening.

By Monday, the heat settles back in with highs in the 90s before another chance for rain arrives early next week.