Springfield, Missouri – Residents across southern Missouri should prepare for another round of thunderstorms Friday before a cold front delivers a noticeably cooler start to the weekend. Some storms Friday afternoon and evening could become strong enough to produce large hail, damaging wind gusts and even an isolated tornado.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, rain chances continue today before increasing Friday, when a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5) for severe thunderstorms covers much of southwest and south-central Missouri. Forecasters say confidence in storm development continues to improve, although the exact timing and intensity will be refined with later updates.
Scattered showers are expected today, mainly west of Highway 65, with rain chances between 30% and 60%. High temperatures will range from 88 to 92 degrees. On Friday, rain chances increase to 40% to 80%, with highs between 85 and 96 degrees ahead of the approaching front. Communities including Springfield, Branson, Joplin, Lebanon, West Plains and Rolla should monitor weather conditions through Friday evening.
Behind the front, temperatures fall well below late-July averages. Saturday’s highs will only reach 76 to 83 degrees, roughly 10 to 15 degrees below normal, while north winds could gust between 25 and 30 mph. Spotty showers remain possible, especially across central Missouri, before skies clear Sunday.
Residents should have multiple ways to receive weather warnings Friday, particularly if outdoor plans are scheduled during the afternoon or evening. Secure loose outdoor items ahead of Saturday’s gusty winds and be prepared for rapidly changing weather as the cold front moves through.
Additional forecasts and any severe weather watches or warnings may be issued as Friday’s storm threat develops.
Five-Day Forecast for Springfield, Missouri
- Thursday: High 88-92°, low 67-75°. Scattered showers, mainly west of Highway 65. 30-60% chance of rain.
- Friday: High 85-96°, low 66-69°. Thunderstorms likely with a few storms possibly becoming severe. 40-80% chance of rain.
- Saturday: High 76-83°, low 62-66°. Scattered showers, especially central Missouri. North wind gusts 25-30 mph. 20-40% chance of rain.
- Sunday: High 81-87°, low 62-67°. Sunny and breezy.
- Monday: High 83-89°, low 63-68°. Sunny.
