Springfield, Missouri –Tornadoes, golf ball-sized hail, and damaging winds are all on the table Sunday afternoon as a high-impact storm system targets southern Missouri, including cities from Joplin to West Plains.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, the most dangerous round of weekend weather is expected to develop Sunday, April 20, during the afternoon and evening hours. A Level 3 out of 5 risk has been issued for much of the Ozarks, with potential for tornadoes, large hail up to 2 inches in diameter, and wind gusts exceeding 70 mph.
Areas most at risk include Springfield, Branson, Lebanon, Rolla, and Poplar Bluff, where strong supercells could form and track east through the evening. Interstates 44 and 55 may face rapid slowdowns due to downed limbs, flash flooding, or low visibility during storms.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, charge devices, and have multiple ways to receive warnings. Those living in mobile homes or vulnerable structures should consider shelter options ahead of time.
Storm activity is expected to taper off late Sunday night, but additional advisories may be issued if instability lingers. Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio or local alerts for real-time updates.
