Springfield, Missouri – A Red Flag Warning is in effect from 12 PM to 8 PM today across southwest Missouri as a combination of strong winds and exceptionally dry air creates dangerous fire-spread conditions. Motorists and residents along Interstate 44, U.S. 60, U.S. 65, and MO-13 should prepare for rapidly changing visibility and blowing dust in open areas as wind gusts reach 30–40 mph.
The National Weather Service reports minimum afternoon humidity values falling between 10% and 20%, low enough to support fast-moving grass and brush fires. Even small ignition sources—trailer chains, cigarettes, and hot equipment—can spark flames capable of spreading quickly in drought-stressed fuels. Officials strongly discourage outdoor burning unless conducted by trained fire personnel.
Temperatures remain unusually warm today, ranging from the upper 60s to upper 70s, but a pattern change arrives Friday as a cold front settles across the Ozarks. Highs fall into the upper 40s and 50s Friday, then drop further for the weekend. A brief window of 15–25% precipitation chances exists Friday night into early Saturday morning, including the possibility of a few flakes in elevated terrain, though impacts appear minimal. Conditions remain dry Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.
Weekend highs will range from the low 40s to low 50s, with overnight lows dipping into the 20s. Cooler weather persists into early next week before a gradual warming trend develops.
Drivers across the region should avoid parking on dry grass, secure loose equipment, and be prepared for sudden wind gusts on east-west routes such as I-44. Fire officials warn that any shift in wind direction this afternoon could accelerate fire behavior.
More updates are expected if humidity drops lower than forecast or wind speeds increase before sunset.
