St. Louis, MO – Missouri residents may be reaching for spring jackets instead of winter coats this Christmas Day, as forecasters warn of record-breaking warmth across parts of the state today.
According to the National Weather Service in St. Louis, confidence continues to increase that several locations could see record or near-record high temperatures on Wednesday, Christmas Day. Forecast highs are expected to reach the low to mid-70s, far above typical late-December averages.
In the St. Louis metro area, temperatures are forecast to reach 75 degrees, which would tie or surpass the city’s long-standing Christmas Day record of 71 degrees set in 1889. Columbia is expected to climb to 74 degrees, matching its record high from the same year, while Quincy could see highs near 70 degrees, exceeding its previous record of 66 degrees set in 2019.
Meteorologists say the unusually warm conditions are being driven by a strong southerly flow pulling warm air northward into the Midwest, preventing colder winter air from settling into the region. While the warmth may be welcome for holiday travel and outdoor plans, officials note it is highly abnormal for this time of year.
Average Christmas Day highs in Missouri typically fall in the upper 30s to low 40s, making today’s forecast nearly 30 degrees above normal in some areas.
Drivers should remain alert, as warm temperatures combined with overnight moisture could still create areas of fog during early morning hours. No winter precipitation is expected.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated with local forecasts as records could fall by the afternoon.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
