Springfield, Missouri – Drivers across southwest Missouri could face rapidly changing and potentially dangerous weather Friday afternoon and evening as strong thunderstorms develop along an approaching cold front, bringing the threat of 70 mph wind gusts, hail up to 2 inches, and a few tornadoes near major roadways including I-44, I-49, and US 65.
Warm, humid air building across the region during the day Friday will help fuel thunderstorm development by mid to late afternoon across parts of the Ozarks.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, thunderstorms are expected to form during the Friday afternoon hours before strengthening into severe storms through the evening. Early storms may develop as supercells, which are capable of producing very large hail and isolated tornadoes before storms merge into a larger line by late evening.
Cities including Springfield, Joplin, and Branson could see storms intensify during the late afternoon and evening commute. Drivers traveling along I-44 between Springfield and Joplin may encounter sudden downpours, hail, and damaging wind gusts that could make travel hazardous for high-profile vehicles.
Farther south toward Branson and Harrison, Arkansas, storms along US 65 may also bring strong wind gusts and heavy rainfall that reduce visibility on roadways during peak travel hours.
Meteorologists warn that hail could reach two inches in diameter in the strongest storms, which could damage vehicles, roofs, and outdoor property. Wind gusts near 70 mph may also bring down tree limbs and power lines in isolated areas.
Residents are encouraged to monitor weather alerts throughout Friday and ensure they have multiple ways to receive warnings as storms approach.
Storms are expected to organize into a larger line Friday night as the cold front moves east, gradually pushing the severe weather threat out of southwest Missouri overnight.
