Springfield, Mo. – Missourians in the Ozarks should brace for steamy afternoons and sporadic storms as heat index values soar above 100° through Saturday, especially in Springfield and along the I-44 corridor. The National Weather Service warns of isolated pop-up showers today and Wednesday, though most areas will remain dry.
According to the US National Weather Service in Springfield, afternoon highs will hover between 89° and 94° all week, with overnight lows staying in the low 70s. Heat index readings could climb as high as 105°, creating potentially dangerous conditions for outdoor activities. A 15–35% chance of rain returns Friday and Saturday, especially along and north of I-44 and toward central Missouri.
In Springfield, Branson, and Lebanon, residents should limit outdoor exposure during peak heat hours and hydrate frequently. Pop-up storms may cause brief downpours and lightning in the late afternoon, but no widespread flooding or severe weather is expected.
Local emergency officials advise residents to check on vulnerable neighbors, use air conditioning where possible, and avoid leaving children or pets in vehicles. The heat wave resembles similar mid-June surges seen in 2022 and 2023.
Warnings remain in effect through Saturday, with additional advisories possible if storm chances increase.
☀️ Five-Day Missouri Weather Outlook:
- Tuesday: Partly cloudy, high 90–93°, heat index 95–103°, isolated afternoon storms
- Wednesday: Partly cloudy, high 89–93°, heat index 93–102°, isolated afternoon storms
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high 89–93°, heat index up to 102°
- Friday: Partly cloudy, high 89–94°, 15–35% chance of rain along and north of I-44
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high 91–94°, 15–35% chance of rain toward central MO
