Springfield, MO – A widespread freeze warning remains in effect across southwest and central Missouri, putting crops, gardens, and outdoor plumbing at risk as temperatures dip well below freezing.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, the initial freeze warning will remain active until 9 a.m. Monday. A second freeze warning takes hold tonight at 11 p.m. and continues through 9 a.m. Tuesday. Temperatures across areas including Springfield, Joplin, Rolla, and Branson are expected to fall as low as 25°F Monday morning and near 27°F overnight into Tuesday.
The freeze impacts counties throughout the Ozarks and southeast Kansas, including Greene, Laclede, Jasper, Newton, Christian, Pulaski, and Dent. This cold snap is especially concerning given recent warm conditions that have triggered early budding and planting across the region.
Residents are urged to protect vulnerable plants and garden beds with covers or by moving them indoors. Unprotected outdoor pipes and irrigation systems may also suffer damage if not properly insulated.
This late-season freeze follows a historically mild winter, making tender vegetation especially susceptible to frost damage. For updated forecasts and local alerts, visit weather.gov/sgf.
