Dangerously Cold Temperatures Expected This Weekend Across the Region

Park Hills, Mo. (KFMO) - A blast of Arctic air is set to bring dangerously cold temperatures to the region from Saturday through Monday morning, with the most significant cold expected early Sunday.

Forecasters say actual temperatures during the coldest period will fall into the single digits, both above and below zero. Wind chills between -10 and -20 degrees are also possible across much of the area, creating hazardous conditions for anyone spending extended time outdoors. The most impactful cold arrives Saturday night into Sunday morning, when temperatures are expected—at an 80 to 100 percent likelihood—to dip into the single digits. The harshest cold is expected across northeast Missouri and west-central Illinois, though the entire region will feel the effects.

There remains some uncertainty regarding the exact temperature and wind chill values, particularly in the St. Louis and Columbia/Jefferson City metro areas. Those differences may determine how severe the impacts become. Still, below-zero wind chills are considered likely across all locations, with confidence between 60 and 100 percent. While some light snow is possible Thursday evening and again on Saturday, confidence in any meaningful accumulation is low locally. Meteorologists say there is only a 10 to 30 percent chance of at least one inch of snow in our immediate area on both days. However, the chance of impactful snowfall increases significantly just northeast of the region, particularly across central Illinois and northeast Missouri.

The coldest wind chill readings are expected overnight Saturday into Sunday, with values dropping to around -8 degrees. Residents are encouraged to take precautions, limit time outdoors, and ensure pets and vulnerable individuals are protected from the dangerous cold.