Missouri – Damp pavement glows under early streetlights this morning as mild December air settles across eastern Missouri, giving St. Louis a springlike feel that won’t last. Coats may come off during the day, but winter remains close behind, especially for drivers planning post-Christmas travel.
According to the National Weather Service in St. Louis, temperatures climb into the lower 60s today with light winds and partial sun. Conditions stay quiet through Wednesday and Christmas Day, with highs pushing the mid to upper 60s. That warmth is notable for late December and may lure holiday travelers into a false sense of security.
By Thursday night, clouds thicken and lows hold near 60, unusually mild for this time of year. Friday turns sunnier and warmer, with highs near the low 70s across the metro area, including St. Louis County and nearby Illinois suburbs. Roads stay dry, and travel remains smooth for now on I-64, I-55, and I-70.
The bigger concern arrives after the warmth fades. Latest models show a sharp cooldown developing late in the weekend. Temperatures fall quickly Saturday night, dropping toward the upper 30s, then into the 20s by Sunday night. Any leftover moisture from daytime melting could refreeze after sunset, creating patchy black ice on bridges and ramps.
Drivers returning home after Christmas should stay alert. Mild afternoons followed by cold nights are classic flash-freeze setups in December. Slow down after dark and watch shaded roadways first.
This early taste of warmth fits a broader national trend, but winter reasserts itself as the final week of December approaches.
Five-Day Outlook for St. Louis, Missouri
- Today: Mostly sunny, high near 63.
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high near 64.
- Christmas Day: Mostly cloudy, high near 65.
- Friday: Sunny, high near 72.
- Saturday: Mostly cloudy, high near 71, colder air follows late.
