Springfield, MO – A sudden drop in temperatures across much of Missouri and southeast Kansas is prompting a Freeze Watch from late Sunday into early Monday, putting crops and outdoor infrastructure at risk.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, the alert begins at 4 a.m. CT Sunday and lasts until 8 a.m. Monday. Temperatures are expected to plunge into the mid to upper 20s across a large swath of central, southwest, and south-central Missouri, including major cities like Springfield, Joplin, Rolla, and Lebanon.
The freeze threat spans counties from Benton and Pulaski down through Barry, Howell, and McDonald. Southeastern Kansas counties including Crawford and Cherokee are also affected. Frost and freeze conditions may kill blooming fruit, sensitive vegetation, and damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.
Residents are urged to take immediate precautions. Bring sensitive potted plants indoors and cover early crops to prevent freeze damage. Those with outdoor plumbing should insulate or shut off exposed pipes overnight.
Though early April freezes aren’t uncommon, the extent of this cold snap covers more ground than typical. Gardeners and farmers should remain alert, especially with more seasonal planting activity starting statewide.
