Springfield, Missouri – A fast-moving line of severe thunderstorms could hit the Ozarks as early as 6 p.m. Friday, bringing wind gusts up to 70 mph that may knock out power and make travel hazardous into the overnight hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, storms will move west to east in a solid line, first impacting areas near the Kansas border between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. before reaching Springfield and surrounding communities between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. The system is expected to exit south-central Missouri by 6 a.m. Saturday.
Cities along the I-44 corridor, including Joplin, Springfield, and Rolla, face the highest risk for damaging winds capable of downing trees and power lines. Quarter-size hail is possible early in the evening, with a few brief tornadoes not ruled out. Heavy rainfall may also trigger localized flash flooding, especially in low-lying and poor drainage areas.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items, avoid overnight travel if possible, and keep phones charged in case warnings are issued while sleeping. Enable emergency alerts to ensure warnings are received overnight.
The severe threat will taper off by early Saturday morning, though additional advisories could be issued if storms intensify or flooding develops.
