Springfield, MO – Gusty winds and dry air are creating elevated fire weather concerns across the Ozarks today, even as showers move through parts of southwest Missouri this morning.
The National Weather Service in Springfield says south to southwest winds will gust between 25 and 40 mph today, with occasional gusts near 45 mph possible this afternoon, especially west of Interstate 49 where a Wind Advisory has been issued. As winds shift to the northwest later today, much drier air moves in, increasing fire danger across southwest Missouri and extreme southeast Kansas. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged, as any fire that starts could spread quickly.
Rain chances linger early today, with showers tapering off as temperatures fall from the upper 50s into the 40s by late afternoon. Winds remain blustery into tonight before gradually easing. Cooler air settles in overnight, with lows dropping into the 20s.
Friday turns quieter but cooler, followed by a dry and mostly sunny weekend with milder temperatures returning by Saturday. Looking ahead, no hazardous weather is expected early next week. Christmas Eve on Wednesday is currently shaping up calm and dry in the Springfield area, a welcome change after today’s wind and fire weather concerns and good news for holiday travel and last-minute preparations.
