Springfield, MO – Southwest Missouri is heading into an unusually warm stretch as temperatures climb toward record levels on Friday and Saturday. Highs are expected to soar into the upper 70s and low 80s—more than 20 degrees above average for mid-November.
According to the National Weather Service Springfield office, the region will see gusty southwest winds along with the warmth, helping push temperatures toward long-standing daily records. Friday’s forecast calls for highs between 76 and 80 degrees, while Saturday climbs even higher into the mid-70s to lower 80s.
Several cities may challenge—or even break—records. Springfield’s record highs stand at 78 degrees for both Friday (set in 1973) and Saturday (set in 1964). Joplin could tie or exceed its 79-degree record for Friday, while West Plains may approach or surpass its 79-degree mark from 1999. Vichy/Rolla also has the potential to meet or exceed its 1955 and 1960 records.
Average highs for this time of year typically range from 57 to 60 degrees across the Ozarks, with average lows in the upper 30s. This weekend’s temperatures will feel more like early October than mid-November.
Winds may gust at times, and while no significant rainfall is expected, forecasters note that warm, dry, breezy conditions could create higher fire-spread concerns in localized areas.
