Springfield, Mo. – Strong thunderstorms could sweep across southwest Missouri after 6 p.m. Saturday, bringing quarter-sized hail and wind gusts up to 60 mph to cities from Joplin to West Plains.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, a Marginal (Level 1) to Slight (Level 2) risk for severe weather is in effect for areas south of a Nevada to Eminence line, including Springfield, Branson, and Mountain Home. Showers and storms are expected to move in after sunset, with the greatest intensity confined to the Missouri-Arkansas border region.
The main hazards include large hail and damaging winds, particularly in extreme southwest Missouri and neighboring southeast Kansas. Storms will be isolated but could become briefly severe. Drivers are urged to avoid unnecessary travel after dark and to secure outdoor items that could become airborne in high winds.
Looking ahead, unsettled weather continues through midweek. Sunday and Monday night bring the highest chances of severe storms and localized flooding, with rain probabilities peaking between 80% and 95%. Highs will range from the upper 70s to mid-80s, cooling by Wednesday.
More updates and potential warnings may be issued later today as conditions evolve. Storm risks persist through Wednesday morning.
