Springfield, MO – After a stretch of warm, picture-perfect fall sunshine, rain and possible thunderstorms will make their return to southwest Missouri by late Friday, bringing cooler temperatures for the weekend. Drivers along I-44 and I-65 should prepare for slick pavement and reduced visibility early Saturday as passing showers move through the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, mostly sunny skies will persist through Friday afternoon, with highs reaching the lower 80s. However, a developing weather system from the Plains will bring a 60% chance of showers and a few rumbles of thunder as the evening progresses. The heaviest rain is expected from midnight through dawn Saturday, tapering off by midday as temperatures dip into the mid-70s.
A Cooler Saturday with Fall Breezes and Showers
Saturday will bring a noticeable shift in the weather as cooler air filters in, making the day feel refreshingly autumnal. West winds near 10 mph will keep things breezy, with lingering clouds expected through the early part of the day. Temperatures will reach the mid-70s, providing a crisp but comfortable afternoon for outdoor activities.
Saturday morning showers will bring a damp start to the weekend, with winds expected to pick up along with occasional gusts. For those with plans for weekend festivals, outdoor markets, or sports events, it’s advisable to keep items covered and secure, as gusty winds could impact setups and decorations.
As the rain eases into midday, conditions will clear, offering residents a refreshing break from the warmer weather of the previous days. Saturday afternoon will be a perfect time to enjoy the cooler temperatures, although some clouds may linger.
Sunny Sunday and a Crisp Start to the Week
Sunday will bring a complete return to sunny skies, with highs in the upper 60s, offering the perfect fall weather for outdoor activities like leaf-peeping, football tailgates, and visits to pumpkin patches. The clear, crisp pattern will continue into early next week, ensuring mild afternoons and cool, comfortable mornings for the Ozarks.
This weekend’s weather marks a clear shift from the warm temperatures of the past week, but it will also offer some much-needed fall-like conditions. The arrival of cooler air on Saturday will make it feel like a traditional autumn day, with comfortable conditions for most outdoor events.
Five-Day Forecast for Springfield, MO:
- Wed: 84/58 – Sunny and warm with a light southeast breeze.
- Thu: 81/61 – Mostly sunny, with gusts up to 18 mph.
- Fri: 83/62 – Mostly sunny, with showers and thunder possible late in the evening.
- Sat: 74/46 – Morning showers with a breezy, cooler afternoon.
- Sun: 68/48 – Sunny, crisp, and classic fall conditions.
Weekend Travel Advisory
Motorists planning to travel early Saturday morning should keep in mind the potential for slick roads and reduced visibility, especially along elevated routes and bridges where rain could cause temporary ponding. The cooler weekend will not only bring clearer skies but also more comfortable weather for those planning to be out and about.
Local events should expect the cooler Saturday to provide ideal conditions for cozy outdoor experiences, but precautions should be taken to avoid potential disruptions caused by morning rain and gusty winds. The upcoming days offer a great opportunity to enjoy fall activities while staying prepared for changing conditions.
Call to Action
What are your weekend plans in the Ozarks? Will you be enjoying the fall weather outdoors, or staying cozy inside? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
