Missouri — Brake lights glow softly through early-morning fog as drivers ease along damp roads.
Patchy dense fog hangs over parts of the Missouri Ozarks this morning, especially around Springfield. Visibility drops quickly in low spots, creating sudden travel slowdowns before sunrise. Temperatures hover near 60 degrees, with light south winds allowing fog pockets to linger.
Travel may feel tricky early. Expect reduced visibility on Highway 60, Highway 65, and rural routes. Slow down, use headlights, and allow extra time if heading out before mid-morning. Conditions improve steadily after sunrise as fog thins.
Once fog lifts, Christmas Day turns warm and bright. Sunshine breaks through, pushing highs near 76 degrees, far above normal for December. Roads dry out quickly, offering smooth travel conditions through the afternoon.
Tonight stays mild but breezy. Clouds increase, and south winds gust at times. Friday remains quiet, with highs near 74 degrees and partly sunny skies. This stretch offers excellent post-Christmas travel weather across southwest Missouri.
Saturday continues the warm trend. Mostly sunny skies push temperatures back into the mid to upper 70s, feeling more like early fall than winter. Outdoor plans remain safe, and road conditions stay dry.
By Sunday, weather shifts. Clouds thicken, and a chance of showers develops by afternoon. Rain may briefly slow travel, especially on highways around Springfield and Branson. Plan extra time if returning home Sunday evening.
Behind the rain, colder air rushes in quickly. Sunday night temperatures tumble into the upper teens, ending the warm spell abruptly. Any leftover moisture could freeze on bridges and untreated roads by early Monday.
Monday feels sharply colder. Sunshine returns, but highs struggle near 30 degrees, with a crisp winter bite in the air. Travelers should prepare for cold mornings and possible slick spots.
For now, navigate fog carefully this morning. Enjoy the unusual warmth while it lasts, and plan ahead for winter’s return as the new week begins.
