Springfield, Missouri – Residents across the Ozarks could experience multiple dangerous weather changes within hours Sunday as severe thunderstorms develop during the afternoon before colder air arrives overnight with snow and a potential flash freeze.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, a powerful storm system will move through southern Missouri Sunday, bringing strong to severe thunderstorms between noon and 6 p.m. The primary threat will be damaging straight-line winds, though isolated hail and brief tornadoes cannot be ruled out as storms move east across the region.
Cities including Springfield, Joplin, Branson, Lebanon, and West Plains sit within the corridor where storms may intensify as the system pushes through the Ozarks during the afternoon.
Behind the storms, temperatures will drop rapidly Sunday night as a strong cold front moves in. Rain may briefly transition to light snow after about 10 p.m., with many areas seeing at least a dusting overnight.
The biggest concern may come as temperatures quickly fall below freezing, creating a flash freeze risk on roads and bridges overnight. Drivers along Interstate 44, U.S. Highway 65, and Highway 60 could encounter slick spots late Sunday night into early Monday morning.
Residents should monitor updates through Sunday, secure outdoor items ahead of strong winds, and prepare for rapidly changing travel conditions overnight as colder air moves into southern Missouri.
