Springfield, Missouri – Gusty southwest winds up to 30 mph combined with humidity levels as low as 20 percent could rapidly spread any fire that sparks near U.S. 65 and I-44 through late Saturday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, unseasonably warm temperatures climbing into the 70s will pair with dry air and gusty winds to create elevated fire weather conditions across much of the Ozarks. Outdoor burning is discouraged, and residents are urged to secure trailer chains and avoid parking vehicles over dry grass.
Conditions shift late Sunday as a strong system increases rain chances across southern Missouri. Showers are likely to expand after 6 p.m. Sunday and continue into Monday morning, with rainfall probabilities between 70 and 90 percent regionwide. While most areas, including Springfield, Branson and West Plains, are expected to see rain, a brief rain-snow mix cannot be ruled out north of Highway 54 and 38 late Sunday night. Any wintry mix would be short-lived and limited to periods of heavier precipitation.
By Monday afternoon, temperatures rise above freezing everywhere, ending any minor winter concerns. The focus then turns to a wetter pattern next week. Multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms are possible from Monday night through at least Thursday, with the heaviest rainfall potential between Tuesday night and Wednesday night.
Drivers should remain alert for ponding on I-44 and low-water crossings later next week. Additional advisories may be issued if fire danger increases Saturday or if heavier rain bands develop across the Ozarks.
