Springfield, Missouri – Southern Missouri residents should prepare before Wednesday afternoon as thunderstorms capable of 60 mph wind gusts, quarter-size hail and locally heavy rain develop, with the greatest severe weather risk between 2 and 8 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, southern Missouri and southeast Kansas face a Marginal, Level 1 of 5, to Slight, Level 2 of 5, severe thunderstorm risk Wednesday. The higher Level 2 risk covers parts of south-central Missouri, including areas around Branson and West Plains.
Springfield sits within the broader Level 1 zone, along with Joplin, Lebanon and surrounding communities. Drivers on Interstate 44, U.S. 65 and other Ozarks routes could encounter heavy downpours, hail and rapidly changing visibility during the afternoon and evening.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items before 2 p.m., move vehicles under cover when possible and keep multiple ways to receive weather warnings. Never drive through a flooded roadway.
Storm chances run from 25% to 50% Wednesday, with highs of 85 to 92 degrees. Warmer, drier conditions then take control through the end of the week.
Additional warnings could be issued Wednesday if individual storms strengthen during the 2-8 p.m. severe weather window.
Five Day Weather Outlook for Springfield, Missouri
- Tonight: 10%-20% chance of isolated showers after midnight. Low 66-74.
- Wednesday: 25%-50% chance of storms. High 85-92; low 63-68.
- Thursday: Partly cloudy and dry. High 83-91; low 59-64.
- Friday: Sunny. High 83-92; low 57-65.
- Saturday: Partly cloudy. High 84-95; low 60-72.
