St. Louis, Missouri – A sharp and unusually strong cold front is sweeping across the central U.S., dropping high temperatures by as much as 30 degrees below normal from Missouri to Texas through Friday.
According to the National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center, this powerful push of unseasonably cool air will expand across much of the Lower 48 through the upcoming week. Areas from the Central Plains to the Ohio Valley are expected to experience highs typically seen in late October—well ahead of schedule. The coldest air will likely settle over Kansas, Oklahoma, and northern Texas midweek, with daytime highs in the 60s and 70s.
In Missouri, cities like St. Louis and Springfield could see highs dip into the upper 60s by Wednesday, with overnight lows flirting with the upper 40s in rural areas. Kansas City may remain stuck in the low 70s for several days, a stark contrast to last week’s triple-digit heat index.
Drivers are urged to prepare for sudden temperature drops that could impact vehicle systems. Residents are advised to dress in layers, close windows overnight, and avoid outdoor exposure during early morning hours when temperatures bottom out.
Cooler-than-average conditions are expected to persist into early next week, and additional advisories may be issued as the front deepens.