Springfield, Missouri — A line of strong thunderstorms could develop across the Ozarks this afternoon, bringing damaging winds and isolated tornado risks.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, the Storm Prediction Center has shifted the area of severe weather potential slightly farther west as a cold front approaches the region.
Forecasters expect thunderstorms to begin forming along the cold front this afternoon and move across the Ozarks through the evening hours. The strongest storms may produce damaging wind gusts between 60 and 70 mph, along with the possibility of isolated tornadoes, according to the National Weather Service.
The agency said the highest chances for strong to severe storms appear across south-central Missouri, particularly east of Highway 65, though storms may develop anywhere along the front as it progresses through the region.
Current outlook guidance shows a corridor of elevated severe weather potential stretching across parts of southern and central Missouri. The primary concern remains damaging winds, which can knock down trees, damage power lines, and create localized power outages.
The National Weather Service emphasized that the window for storms could be relatively brief, but conditions may intensify quickly once storms develop.
Residents across the Ozarks are encouraged to remain weather aware throughout the afternoon and early evening and ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, including weather radios, phone alerts, or local broadcast updates.
Severe weather warnings can be issued with little lead time, particularly when storms form rapidly along cold fronts.
The developing storms could also affect Sunday travel and afternoon errands for commuters and students across the Springfield region, especially during the late afternoon hours.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
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