Springfield, MO – Cooler nights are signaling the arrival of fall freeze season across southwest Missouri, as average first freeze dates approach over the next week to ten days.
According to the US National Weather Service in Springfield, most areas in the Ozarks — including Springfield, Joplin, Rolla, and Camdenton — typically experience their first freeze between October 22 and October 25, with a hard freeze (below 28°F) usually following in early November.
The climatological data, compiled by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center, shows the earliest recorded freezes can occur as early as late September, while the latest dates stretch into mid-November depending on location and elevation.
Until those colder nights arrive, vegetation remains vulnerable to frost and freeze impacts, particularly in rural valleys where overnight temperatures dip faster. Gardeners and farmers are encouraged to monitor forecasts closely and take steps to protect sensitive plants as fall progresses.
Forecasters say clear skies and dry air over the coming week could allow for a few chilly mornings, but widespread freezing temperatures are not yet expected.
