tornadoes

Kansas City has seen a lot of storms this year, but the metro has avoided a devastating tornado. Some locals say there’s a reason for that: the Tonganoxie Split. But is there any scientific evidence backing up this long-standing legend?

A local weather phenomenon holds that the 6,100-person town of Tonganoxie, Kansas, can weaken and divide thunderstorms and tornadoes. Experts are mixed on its existence — and what causes it — but locals say otherwise.

Missouri state Reps. Marty Joe Murray and Colin Wellenkamp are part of the bipartisan "Missouri Future Caucus," which is looking into bills about the proliferation of artificial intelligence and disaster preparedness.

Destructive tornadoes have hit states such as Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky and Indiana this season as activity shifts east. Meanwhile, scientists say dry and hot weather in the Great Plains brought on by climate change could be slowing the number of tornadoes there.

Trump's decision opens up individual aid for people affected by the deadly tornado that devastated parts of the St. Louis region.

Tornadoes are more likely to destroy property in counties with more Black residents than any other area, which exacerbates racial segregation and poverty, according to a recent journal article.

Missouri U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley said he will push to make sure President Donald Trump approves Gov. Mike Kehoe's request for tornado relief funds.

Kansas City is seeing flooding around the metro, plus downed trees and traffic crashes, after a "confirmed large and extremely dangerous tornado" was reported in Raytown near the Truman Sports Complex.

The National Weather Service says a "confirmed large and extremely dangerous tornado" was located near Raytown, moving east at 45 mph towards Independence. Tornado warnings have been canceled for Jackson County and surrounding areas, but the threat of flash flooding remains.

Information is emerging about how many people in north St. Louis did not have homeowners insurance when storms ripped through the region on May 16. Still, the data is just an early estimate, against the backdrop of a rising number of homeowners around the country who don't have policies.

In addition to legislation addressing the Kansas City Royals and Chiefs' stadiums, the special session will also focus on tornado relief for St. Louis and several projects that failed to get funded at the last minute.

If President Trump approves the disaster declaration, individuals could receive housing, transportation and health care-related aid.