Springfield, MO – The Ozarks are set to enjoy a brief stretch of milder, quiet weather early this week before winter makes a noticeable comeback later on. High pressure settling into the region will keep conditions calm through Tuesday, but a series of systems arriving mid- to late-week will bring rain and snow showers, gusty winds, and a significant cooldown heading into the weekend.
Mild Start to the Week
Sunday’s cold front delivered sunshine and a modest warm-up, with afternoon highs climbing into the upper 30s to mid-40s across much of the Ozarks. That warming trend continues into Monday and Tuesday, offering a welcome break from winter chill.
Monday will begin on the cold side, with morning lows dipping into the mid to upper 20s. However, conditions will improve quickly as southwest winds gusting up to 25 mph help push afternoon highs into the mid to upper 50s. Mostly clear skies and dry air will dominate the day, making it one of the more comfortable days the region has seen in recent weeks.
Tuesday Brings the Warmest Temperatures
Tuesday will be the warmest day in the short-term forecast, with morning lows starting in the upper 30s and afternoon highs reaching the low to mid-60s. Partly sunny skies and a strengthening southwest wind up to 30 mph will help boost temperatures even higher.
With the warmer air, gusty winds, and low afternoon humidity, officials are urging caution due to an elevated fire risk Tuesday afternoon, especially in grassy and wooded areas. Outdoor burning is discouraged, and residents are advised to take precautions with equipment that could spark fires.
Weather Pattern Shifts Midweek
The calm pattern begins to break down late Tuesday night into early Wednesday as a cold front and upper-level disturbance move toward the Ozarks. Scattered showers are expected to develop overnight, followed by mostly cloudy skies during the day Wednesday with occasional light rain or sprinkles.
Wednesday will act as a transition day, with temperatures initially climbing into the mid to upper 40s before colder air arrives. As the day progresses, readings are expected to fall into the 30s by afternoon, signaling the return of winter-like conditions.
Colder Air Settles In Thursday
Behind the midweek system, Thursday will feel much colder, with early morning lows dropping into the upper teens. Afternoon highs will struggle to reach the mid to upper 30s, even under partly sunny skies. Winds will be lighter, but the colder air mass will keep conditions feeling wintry throughout the day.
Residents are encouraged to protect exposed pipes, ensure pets have adequate shelter, and prepare for colder mornings as the region moves deeper into winter conditions once again.
Rain and Snow Chances Late Week
Another system is expected to arrive Friday into Saturday, bringing renewed chances for rain and snow showers across parts of the Ozarks. While details are still coming into focus, early indications suggest any snow accumulations will remain under one inch, though even light accumulation could create slick travel conditions.
Friday’s highs are forecast to reach the lower 40s, followed by a drop back into the mid to upper 30s for the weekend. Overnight lows will remain cold, reinforcing the winter pattern heading into Saturday night.
Looking Ahead
By next Sunday, the late-week system should move out of the region, allowing dry and mostly sunny skies to return. Despite the sunshine, colder air is expected to linger through the remainder of the weekend.
Looking further ahead, the period from January 19 through January 21 could bring another temperature swing, with highs potentially climbing from the 30s early next week back into the lower 50s by midweek.
Conclusion
The Ozarks will enjoy two pleasant and mild days before a return to colder, unsettled winter weather later this week. Residents should take advantage of the warmer conditions Monday and Tuesday, remain cautious of fire danger Tuesday afternoon, and prepare for rain, snow showers, and colder temperatures heading into the weekend.
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