Springfield, MO – Strong thunderstorms could sweep into southwest Missouri Wednesday afternoon, bringing the risk of damaging winds and large hail that may disrupt travel across the Springfield metro.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, storms are most likely to intensify between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., especially along and south of Interstate 44. Greene County and surrounding communities including Nixa, Ozark and Republic sit in a corridor where isolated severe storms could develop quickly. The overall threat level is marginal to slight, but any stronger storm may produce wind gusts over 60 mph and hail large enough to dent vehicles.
Drivers along Interstate 44, Highway 65 and major east-west routes should prepare for sudden heavy rain and sharply reduced visibility during the afternoon commute. Brief power outages are possible if winds knock down tree limbs or power lines. While the tornado risk remains low, forecasters say it is not zero if storms rotate.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items, move vehicles into garages if possible and ensure weather alerts are enabled on smartphones before storms fire up.
Storm chances decrease by early evening, though additional advisories could be issued if storms strengthen.
