Missouri begins the day under calm skies and a deceptive chill.
Cold air lingers early, but the quiet morning will not last.
Temperatures hover near 34 degrees at sunrise across the Springfield area. The air feels damp, and frost clings to grass and rooftops. Roads remain dry, though drivers should watch shaded stretches during the early commute.
By late morning, conditions shift quickly. Sunshine strengthens, winds turn southerly, and temperatures climb fast. Highs reach the mid-70s this afternoon, a dramatic February turnaround. The warmth arrives with gusts up to 20 mph, drying out fields and brush west of Highway 65.
The National Weather Service flags an elevated fire weather risk today. Warm temperatures, low humidity, and gusty winds create conditions where grass fires can spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged, and sparks from equipment or vehicles could ignite dry vegetation. Residents should secure chains, avoid tossing cigarettes, and use caution with any open flames.
The warmth holds into the evening. Temperatures fall slowly, staying near 50 degrees overnight. This limits refreeze concerns but allows dry conditions to persist.
Tuesday remains mild but slightly cooler. Clouds increase, and highs settle near 68 degrees. Winds ease, reducing fire danger, though vegetation remains dry. By Wednesday, temperatures cool into the upper 50s, still above seasonal norms.
Looking ahead, rain chances return Thursday and continue into the weekend. While rainfall will help ease fire concerns, embedded lightning is possible at times. Travel impacts should remain limited, but wet roads could slow evening commutes.
The broader 6–10 day outlook favors continued above-normal temperatures across southern Missouri. Winter loosens its grip, though fast-moving systems will keep conditions changeable.
5-Day Outlook – Springfield, MO
Today: Sunny, high 74, elevated fire risk
Tuesday: Increasing clouds, high 68
Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 58
Thursday: Chance of showers, high 58
Friday: Showers possible, high 55
