The Ozarks woke up under a frosty chill this morning, with black ice turning some bridges and back roads slick across southern and central Missouri. Drivers are urged to use extreme caution — especially on untreated or shaded surfaces — as refrozen moisture from yesterday’s drizzle has created nearly invisible icy patches before sunrise.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, early-morning commuters should allow extra travel time and avoid sudden braking. The ice threat will fade by late morning as temperatures climb above freezing, but the region remains locked in a below-normal temperature pattern for the week.
Highs today will top out in the upper 30s to low 40s, roughly 10 degrees below average for early December. Overnight lows will drop back into the 20s, setting the stage for more frosty mornings ahead.
Forecasters say the week looks mostly dry but cold, with highs hovering in the 30s and 40s through Saturday. A weak disturbance may bring a few flurries or light freezing drizzle Wednesday night, though chances remain low — less than 15% at this time. Still, any light icing could quickly create slick spots if temperatures dip below freezing again.
By Thursday and Friday, skies turn partly sunny but the cold deepens, with lows in the upper teens possible in rural areas. Another reinforcing chill arrives over the weekend, keeping highs in the 40s and lows in the 20s.
Residents are encouraged to protect pipes, pets, and plants, and stay alert for black ice during early morning drives. Even a thin film of re-frozen moisture can send vehicles sliding.
Have you noticed slick spots near your neighborhood this morning? Share your reports as Missouri heads deeper into its first full week of December chill.
