Springfield, Mo. – Strong wind gusts up to 40 mph could rapidly spread fires across Missouri by Sunday afternoon, creating dangerous conditions for anyone using open flames or equipment that produces sparks.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, a dry air mass combined with gusty southwest winds of 10 to 15 mph, increasing to 30 mph, will elevate fire danger across much of the state Sunday. As a cold front pushes through later in the day, winds will shift north and intensify, with gusts reaching up to 40 mph into the evening.
Communities including Springfield, Joplin, Branson, and Rolla face the highest risk, especially along open fields and rural roadways such as U.S. Route 60 and Interstate 44. Fires can ignite quickly and spread fast under these conditions, particularly in dry grassland areas.
Temperatures will climb into the low 90s Sunday before dropping sharply into the 60s by Monday behind the front. Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning, properly discard cigarettes, and secure trailer chains to prevent sparks.
Five Day Forecast for Springfield, Missouri
Sunday: Warm and breezy. High 82–91°F. Low 40–47°F.
Monday: Cooler. High 59–67°F. Low 42–49°F.
Tuesday: Mild. High 63–71°F. Low 46–54°F.
Wednesday: Warmer. High 78–86°F. Low 57–64°F.
Thursday: Warm. High 85–90°F. Low 55–60°F.
