Dry air and strengthening winds are setting the stage for elevated fire danger across Springfield, Missouri and the surrounding Ozarks today, as southwest Missouri experiences an early taste of spring warmth in the middle of February.
The morning begins quietly, with temperatures near 39 degrees and a light breeze drifting across the region. Skies appear calm, but the atmosphere tells a different story. As the day progresses, southerly winds will steadily increase through late morning and into early evening. At the same time, humidity levels will remain low while temperatures climb toward 60 degrees.
That combination—warm air, dry vegetation, and gusty winds—creates an elevated fire risk not only across southern Missouri but also into extreme southeast Kansas. Even a small spark in an open field could spread rapidly under these conditions. Dry grasses, dormant brush, and leftover winter debris are particularly susceptible to ignition.
Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning today. Simple precautions can make a major difference: secure trailer chains to prevent roadside sparks, properly dispose of cigarettes, and delay any planned debris burns. Fire crews throughout the region are monitoring conditions closely and stand ready to respond if needed.
Friday brings even warmer weather. Under abundant sunshine, afternoon highs are expected to reach around 66 degrees, making it feel more like late March than mid-February. Winds will ease somewhat compared to Thursday, but vegetation will remain dry enough to support fire starts. While the immediate fire risk may lessen slightly, caution is still advised, especially in rural areas.
A shift in the pattern arrives Friday night. Showers are forecast to develop after midnight, with rain chances increasing significantly. Overnight lows will hold near 47 degrees as moisture spreads into the region. Early commuters Saturday morning may encounter wet pavement and reduced visibility at times.
Saturday is shaping up to be a soggy day. Widespread rain is expected, with periods of steady showers and the potential for embedded lightning. Afternoon highs will be cooler, near 55 degrees. Travelers should plan for slower conditions, particularly along major routes such as U.S. 65 and busy corridors like Campbell Avenue, where ponding on roadways could develop during heavier rainfall.
Showers will gradually taper off Saturday night, setting the stage for a pleasant rebound on Sunday. Sunshine returns, and temperatures climb back to around 61 degrees, offering a comfortable end to the weekend.
Looking ahead to early next week, a pronounced February thaw is expected. Highs will push into the upper 60s on Monday and surge into the low 70s by Tuesday and Wednesday. The extended outlook favors above-normal temperatures along with periodic rain chances, reinforcing the sense that springlike conditions are building across southern Missouri.
Five-Day Outlook – Springfield
Friday: Mostly sunny, high 66
Saturday: Showers, high 55
Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 61
Monday: Mostly sunny, high 67
Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, high 71
