Springfield, MO – Temperatures will surge into the upper 80s and low 90s by Thursday afternoon, setting the stage for thunderstorms that could impact travel and overnight plans across the Ozarks.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, highs will reach 87°F to 91°F Thursday after already warm conditions Wednesday in the low-to-mid 80s. Storm chances increase sharply Thursday evening, with probabilities ranging from 40% to 90% as showers and thunderstorms develop and move through between 6 p.m. and 3 a.m.
Cities including Springfield, Branson, Joplin, and Lebanon could see periods of heavy rain and gusty winds overnight, especially along I-44 and U.S. 65. Drivers should prepare for reduced visibility and wet roads during nighttime travel.
By Friday, temperatures will drop significantly into the mid-50s to mid-60s, marking a sharp shift from Thursday’s heat. Cooler, breezy conditions will continue into Saturday with highs in the low 60s before a gradual warm-up returns Sunday into early next week.
Residents should secure outdoor items Thursday evening and enable weather alerts before going to bed. Additional updates are expected as storm timing and coverage become clearer.
