Missouri wakes to a clear but edgy morning as cold air bites and wind hums through bare trees around Springfield. The air feels dry, sharp, and restless, signaling a fast-changing December pattern.
Temperatures start in the mid-20s, with wind chills near the teens. Winds increase through the morning, gusting between 20 and 30 mph at times. Loose decorations, trash bins, and holiday inflatables should be secured early. Drivers on open roads like US-65 and Highway 60 may notice sudden crosswinds, especially by late morning and afternoon.
By afternoon, sunshine pushes highs close to 50 degrees. Despite the warming trend, low humidity creates elevated fire weather conditions, mainly west of Highway 65. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged. Even small sparks can spread quickly in these dry, windy conditions.
Tonight stays quiet but breezy at times. Temperatures dip into the upper 30s, preventing widespread icing. Roads remain dry, though shaded areas cool quickly after sunset.
Saturday brings a noticeable shift. Winds relax, skies stay bright, and temperatures climb near 60 degrees. It feels almost springlike for late December. Outdoor plans improve, and regional travel conditions remain favorable through the day.
Sunday stays mild with highs near 50 under mostly sunny skies. This sets up a solid Christmas travel window across southwest Missouri. Meteorologists are watching longer-range patterns closely. Models hint at continued warmth into midweek, with highs pushing into the upper 60s and even low 70s before Christmas.
That warmth carries a caution. Any late-week rain could refreeze if colder air returns afterward. Flash-freeze risks rise this time of year, especially overnight.
Planning holiday travel or outdoor activities? Let us know how conditions look where you are.
Five-Day Outlook: Springfield, Missouri
Saturday: Sunny, high near 60
Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 51
Monday: Partly sunny, high near 56
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 69
Wednesday: Warm, high near 73
