Springfield, MO – A wetter and occasionally cooler pattern may settle over the Ozarks for the Thanksgiving travel window, as new long-range federal outlooks show a 40–50% or higher chance of above-normal precipitation across the region from November 23 through November 29. While temperatures are expected to stay too warm for widespread snow, high-elevation parts of the Ozark Plateau and Boston Mountains could see a brief wintry mix if colder pockets arrive behind any passing storm.
According to the Climate Prediction Center’s 8–14 Day Outlook, the Ozarks sit squarely within a moisture corridor stretching from the Southern Plains into the Midwest. This setup typically brings rounds of cold rain to most of Missouri and Arkansas, with the only wintry risk coming from terrain-driven cooling in northwest Arkansas and southern Missouri.
In northwest Arkansas, including Fayetteville, Rogers, Bentonville, and the Boston Mountains near Huntsville and Jasper, nighttime temperatures may briefly drop close to freezing. If moisture overlaps, a quick rain–snow mix or a few wet flakes could occur—especially before sunrise or just after sunset. However, any accumulations would be minimal and short-lived.
In southern Missouri, including Springfield, Branson, West Plains, and the higher ridges of the Ozark Plateau, precipitation is also expected to fall mainly as cold rain. Still, foothill areas could see a brief mix if colder air filters south late in the week.
Across eastern Oklahoma, including Fort Smith’s western suburbs, Tahlequah, and the Cookson Hills, temperatures remain warm enough for predominantly rain, though visibility may be reduced during heavier downpours.
Thanksgiving week brings heavy travel flow along I-44, US-65, US-71/I-49, and mountain routes that connect small cities throughout the Ozarks. While significant winter weather is unlikely, steady rain, fog, and slick roads may create slowdowns—especially during peak departure times.
Forecasters expect clearer storm timing early next week as short-range models begin resolving system-by-system details for the region.
