Springfield, MO – The National Weather Service (NWS) Springfield reports a windy Wednesday across the Ozarks, followed by a sharp temperature drop heading into the weekend.
Northwest winds of 25 to 35 mph are expected today, particularly along and east of Highway 65, where gusts could be strongest late this morning and afternoon. The NWS warns that loose outdoor items, including holiday decorations and lawn furniture, could be blown around. Motorists should also anticipate crosswinds on exposed stretches of roadways.
Despite today’s breezy conditions, temperatures will remain mild, with highs in the mid-40s to low 50s under partly sunny skies. Winds will gradually diminish overnight as calmer air settles in.
By Friday, the weather pattern shifts dramatically. A strong Arctic cold front will plunge through southwest Missouri, bringing a sharp temperature drop and wind chills in the single digits to teens by Sunday morning. Highs will fall into the 30s and low 40s Saturday and only reach the upper 20s to near 30° on Sunday.
“After a few mild days, this weekend will feel much more like December,” forecasters said. “Morning lows could dip into the teens, with wind chills near or below zero in some spots early Sunday.”
No major precipitation is expected with the front, but frosty mornings and blustery winds will make for a stark contrast from midweek warmth.
Residents are advised to prepare outdoor plumbing, bring pets indoors, and check on those sensitive to cold conditions before temperatures tumble.
For the latest updates, visit weather.gov/sgf or follow @NWSSpringfield for ongoing weather coverage.
