Missouri skies over the Ozarks are flashing with lightning this morning as strong thunderstorms sweep across Springfield and surrounding communities. Rain pounds rooftops while gusty winds ripple across open fields and highways.
Storms continue pushing across southwest Missouri and the Ozarks, bringing bursts of heavy rain and dangerous lightning early today.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, some storms may produce damaging wind gusts near 60 mph, large hail, and even a brief tornado in isolated areas. Localized flooding is also possible where heavier rain bands stall.
Drivers along Interstate 44, U.S. Route 65, and Highway 60 should expect slick pavement and sudden downpours during the morning commute. Visibility can drop quickly when heavier cells pass through.
Communities including Springfield, Nixa, Ozark, Republic, and Branson could experience brief strong wind gusts and lightning as storms track east across the region.
Conditions should gradually improve later in the day as storms weaken and move out of the Ozarks. Temperatures reach around 61°F, though winds may remain brisk through the afternoon.
Behind the system, cooler air briefly settles across southern Missouri.
Sunshine returns Thursday with highs near 60°F, offering a calm and pleasant early-spring day across the region.
By Friday, temperatures climb to around 67°F under bright skies, signaling a welcome stretch of mild March weather.
Even warmer air arrives Saturday with highs reaching the mid-70s, creating strong spring vibes across the Ozarks just days before the official start of spring on March 20.
However, meteorologists are already watching another system that may bring rain later in the weekend, especially by Sunday.
For now, residents should stay weather-aware as storms continue moving through the area this morning.
Are storms or lightning hitting your neighborhood right now? Tell us what conditions look like where you live.
Five Day Outlook for Springfield, Missouri
Wednesday: Showers and thunderstorms early. High near 61°F.
Wednesday Night: Gradual clearing. Low near 30°F.
Thursday: Sunny and cooler. High near 60°F.
Friday: Sunny and warmer. High near 67°F.
Saturday: Sunny and spring-like. High near 74°F.
