Missouri skies are already rumbling over the Ozarks this morning, and flashes of lightning are cutting through low gray clouds near Springfield. Water beads on windshields along Highway 65, and conditions could intensify quickly through the afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, a line of storms moving out of central Oklahoma and south-central Kansas will track east across the region. Damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph and isolated quarter-size hail are possible, especially west of Highway 65 early, then shifting east. A marginal tornado risk also exists, along with elevated lightning and excessive rainfall.
Highs reach near 65 degrees today, fueling instability. Storms may redevelop this afternoon and evening, mainly southwest of Highway 65. A band of heavy rain could set up south of I-44, raising concerns for localized flooding. If you travel, avoid low-water crossings and never drive through flooded roads.
Showers and thunderstorms remain likely tonight with rainfall totals between three-quarters of an inch and one inch possible in spots.
Thursday stays unsettled with showers likely and highs near 71. By Friday, temperatures surge to 76 degrees before another strong system arrives. Storms may redevelop Friday afternoon into Friday night. All hazards appear possible, including large hail up to golf ball size, damaging winds, and a few tornadoes.
Saturday trends drier with highs near 61, followed by sunshine Sunday near 68. Early next week warms into the mid-70s, signaling early March spring warmth. Remember, clocks spring ahead at 2 a.m. Sunday.
Are you seeing high water or hail in your neighborhood this morning?
Five Day Outlook for Springfield, Missouri:
Today: High 65, thunderstorms likely, some severe.
Thursday: High 71, showers likely.
Friday: High 76, storms developing late.
Saturday: High 61, partly sunny.
Sunday: High 68, sunny.
