Springfield, Missouri – Severe storms are expected to intensify across the Ozarks within hours tonight, with large hail and damaging winds targeting areas west of I-49 before expanding east.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, strong to severe thunderstorms will develop this evening and overnight, especially west of Interstate 49. The main hazards include hail up to golf ball size and damaging wind gusts, with a low but present tornado risk.
Storm chances continue into Thursday, shifting focus east of Highway 65, including Springfield, Branson, and West Plains. Additional rounds of storms could bring more large hail and strong winds during the morning and afternoon hours as a frontal boundary moves through.
By Friday evening into the overnight, another round of severe weather is expected as a cold front pushes across the region. Damaging winds remain the primary threat, with storms capable of producing widespread impacts along major routes like I-44 and Highway 60.
Residents should prepare for multiple rounds of severe weather, secure outdoor items, and ensure alerts are enabled. Conditions turn cooler this weekend, with frost or freezing temperatures possible by early Sunday morning.
