Missouri wakes to frosted lawns and chilled air as winter presses into Springfield. Temperatures hover near 32 degrees, leaving car windshields glazed and sidewalks cold underfoot. The morning feels still, but change is already building.
Clouds increase through the day while temperatures climb steadily. Afternoon highs reach the mid-50s, offering a brief December thaw. Winds pick up from the southwest, gusting above 20 mph, especially across open roads like U.S. 60 and Highway 65. Travel stays smooth, though the breeze adds bite.
Tonight turns quieter but remains cool. Skies partially clear, and lows settle near 35 degrees. Any damp spots could chill quickly toward morning. Drivers should stay alert near shaded areas and bridges.
Wednesday brings sunshine and mild air. Highs approach 58 degrees, making it one of the warmer December afternoons this week. To be fair, it feels almost springlike. That warmth does not last long. By Wednesday night, showers develop, with about a 30 percent chance of rain after dark. Roads may turn slick during evening travel.
Thursday delivers the real transition. Winds strengthen and shift, ushering in cooler air behind a passing system. Afternoon highs hold near 56 degrees, but temperatures drop fast after sunset. Skies clear Thursday night as lows plunge to around 22 degrees, creating prime conditions for freeze and black ice if moisture lingers.
Friday stays bright but cooler, with highs near 49 degrees. The weekend looks calmer and milder. Saturday warms into the low 60s, followed by a quieter Sunday near 56 degrees, favorable for early Christmas travel and outdoor errands.
What to do now: Dress for a cold morning. Plan for gusty winds today. Watch for slick spots Wednesday night into Thursday morning.
5-Day Outlook – Springfield, MO
- Today: Clouding up, high near 55
- Wednesday: Sunny, high near 58
- Thursday: Breezy, high near 56, sharp freeze at night
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 49
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 61
