SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – After a stretch of warm, picture-perfect fall sunshine, rain and possible thunder will return to southwest Missouri by late Friday, marking a shift toward cooler weekend air. Drivers along I-44 and I-65 should prepare for slick pavement and reduced visibility early Saturday as passing showers move through.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, mostly sunny skies will continue through Friday afternoon with highs in the lower 80s. By Friday evening, a developing system from the Plains will bring a 60% chance of showers and a few rumbles of thunder. The heaviest rain is expected from midnight through dawn Saturday, tapering off by midday as temperatures dip into the mid-70s.
Saturday’s cooler air will bring a refreshing fall feel, with west winds near 10 mph and lingering clouds early. By Sunday, sunshine will fully return with highs in the upper 60s — perfect for leaf-peeping, football tailgates, and pumpkin patch visits. The clear, crisp pattern will hold into early next week, offering mild afternoons and cool, comfortable mornings across the Ozarks.
Motorists are urged to check road conditions before early Saturday travel, especially along elevated routes and bridges where rain could briefly pond. Residents planning weekend festivals or outdoor markets should keep Friday night setups covered and secure lightweight decorations ahead of gusty winds.
Five-Day Forecast for Springfield, MO:
Wed: 84/58 – Sunny and warm; light southeast breeze.
Thu: 81/61 – Mostly sunny; gusts up to 18 mph.
Fri: 83/62 – Mostly sunny; showers, thunder possible late.
Sat: 74/46 – Morning showers, breezy; cooler afternoon.
Sun: 68/48 – Sunny, crisp; classic fall feel returns.
