Springfield, MO – A possibly record-breaking Christmas is shaping up across southwest Missouri and the Ozarks, as temperatures are expected to soar to levels more typical of April or even October, according to the National Weather Service in Springfield.
Forecasters say an upward temperature trend will continue through the week, peaking on Christmas Day, when highs across the region are expected to reach the low to mid-70s. Normal highs for late December typically sit in the low-to-mid 40s, highlighting just how unusual the upcoming warmth will be.
The National Weather Service says precipitation chances will remain below 10 percent through the week, meaning dry and sunny conditions will accompany the warmth.
Several locations may tie or break long-standing Christmas Day records:
- Springfield: Forecast high 74°, matching the record set in 1889
- Joplin: Forecast high 74°, exceeding the previous record of 72° (2016)
- West Plains: Forecast high 73°, just shy of the 74° record set in 2021
- Vichy/Rolla: Forecast high 74°, surpassing the old record of 71° (1971)
Meteorologists attribute the warmth to a persistent upper-level pattern allowing mild air to dominate much of the central United States, with no significant cold fronts expected to reach the region before Christmas.
While the warm conditions will be favorable for holiday travel and outdoor activities, officials remind residents that winter is far from over, and colder conditions could still return later in January.
Communities across Greene County, Jasper County, Howell County, Phelps County, and surrounding parts of southwest Missouri should continue monitoring forecasts as Christmas approaches.
