Weather
Southwest Missouri Weather: 35 MPH Gusts Raise Fire Danger Today Oct 12
SPRINGFIELD, MO – Southwest Missouri faces an unusual combination of potentially record breaking October heat, elevated fire danger and increasing thunderstorm chances this week, with temperatures cli
By Natalie Rhodes · 2026-10-12T08:55:51.941Z
SPRINGFIELD, MO – Southwest Missouri faces an unusual combination of potentially record breaking October heat, elevated fire danger and increasing thunderstorm chances this week, with temperatures climbing into the 90s before a wetter weather pattern arrives.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, temperatures Monday, Oct. 12, are expected to reach 88 to 93 degrees across the region, running approximately 15 to 20 degrees above seasonal averages.
Springfield could reach 90 degrees Monday, just below its daily record of 91 degrees set in 2024. Tuesday's forecast high of 93 degrees would exceed the city's existing daily record of 88 degrees set in 2017.
Joplin could reach 92 degrees Tuesday, also exceeding its daily record of 88 degrees, while Rolla could experience similar record challenging warmth.
The extreme warmth is also creating elevated fire weather concerns Monday.
The National Weather Service warns that southwest wind gusts between 25 and 35 mph, combined with relative humidity as low as 25% to 35%, could allow fires to spread rapidly.
The strongest winds are expected west of Highway 65, while the lowest humidity levels are forecast east of the highway.
Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and activities that could produce sparks. Officials also recommend properly disposing of cigarettes and avoiding parking vehicles on dry grass.
Weather conditions are expected to change by midweek.
Forecasters indicate a 60% to 90% chance of showers and thunderstorms Wednesday and Thursday, with the potential for localized heavy rainfall.
However, uncertainty remains regarding which communities will receive the heaviest rain and exactly when storms will arrive.
Rain chances should begin decreasing Friday as the weather system moves through the region.
Residents across Springfield, Joplin, Rolla and surrounding Ozarks communities should monitor updated forecasts as both fire weather conditions and thunderstorm chances develop.