Missouri fields rustle sharply this morning as dry grass bends under gusty winds near Springfield. The air feels brisk and hollow, with humidity dropping fast enough to raise concern beyond the cold. Today’s threat isn’t snow or ice first—it’s fire.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, gusty northwest winds combine with humidity falling into the 30s this afternoon, creating an elevated fire weather risk across parts of southern Missouri. Winds gust up to 25 mph at times, while dry fuels respond quickly despite recent cool conditions.
Any spark spreads faster under these conditions. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged, and drivers should secure chains or equipment that could drag and spark along roadways. Rural areas south and east of Springfield remain most vulnerable during the afternoon hours.
Temperatures peak near the upper 40s today before dropping quickly after sunset. As skies clear and winds ease tonight, colder air settles in. Lows fall into the lower 20s by Sunday morning, introducing a hard freeze risk across the Ozarks. Any damp spots on pavement could refreeze late tonight, especially on bridges and shaded roads.
Sunday turns sunny but cold, with highs near the low 40s and a lingering bite in the air. Calm conditions return Sunday night, allowing another freeze before a sharp rebound early next week.
By Monday, sunshine pushes highs into the mid-50s. Tuesday warms further, reaching the low 60s under mostly sunny skies. The rapid swing from fire danger to freeze highlights the volatile nature of January weather across the region.
Regionally, heavier rain and severe weather target the Southeast today, while wintry precipitation spreads farther north into the Great Lakes and Northeast. Springfield stays dry but active in a different way.
By late January, Springfield gains roughly 40 extra minutes of daylight, slowly stretching winter evenings.
Avoid outdoor burning today, plan for a hard freeze tonight, and stay weather-aware. Noticing dry or windy conditions near you? Share what you’re seeing.
Five-Day Weather Outlook: Springfield, Missouri
- Saturday: Clearing, windy at times. High near 47.
- Sunday: Sunny and cold. High near 42.
- Monday: Sunny and milder. High near 56.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, warmer. High near 61.
- Wednesday: Partly cloudy, cooler. High near upper 40s.
