Springfield, MO – A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is now in effect for much of southern and central Missouri through 6 p.m. CDT Saturday, as forecasters warn of storms capable of producing damaging winds, large hail, and frequent lightning across the region.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma, Watch No. 623 includes more than 35 Missouri counties, stretching from Joplin and Springfield to Rolla and the Ozarks region.
Counties under the watch include Barry, Barton, Camden, Cedar, Christian, Crawford, Dade, Dallas, Dent, Douglas, Greene, Hickory, Howell, Iron, Jasper, Laclede, Lawrence, Madison, Maries, McDonald, Miller, Newton, Oregon, Ozark, Phelps, Polk, Pulaski, Reynolds, Shannon, St. Francois, Ste. Genevieve, Stone, Taney, Texas, Washington, Webster, and Wright.
Forecasters say storms will continue to develop through the afternoon ahead of an advancing cold front. “Any storm that forms may become severe quickly, with potential for large hail and wind gusts above 60 mph,” meteorologists cautioned.
The primary threats include damaging winds, hail up to one inch, and isolated flash flooding in low-lying or poor-drainage areas.
Residents are advised to monitor local weather updates, seek shelter when thunder is heard, and avoid travel during strong storms. Conditions are expected to improve after sunset as the system moves eastward.
