If you think today’s cool but manageable weather will last, think again. A powerful weather system is moving into St. Louis, bringing heavy rain, possible thunderstorms, and a dramatic temperature drop that will turn wet roads into icy hazards overnight.
Right now, skies are mostly cloudy with a high near 38°F (3°C). Winds are starting to pick up from the southeast, gusting as high as 24 mph, signaling the arrival of the approaching storm system.
What to Expect Tonight: Heavy Rain, Thunderstorms, and Falling Temperatures
As evening approaches, St. Louis will see steady rainfall, with possible thunderstorms mixed in. Temperatures will hover around 34°F (1°C) early in the night, but they won’t stay there for long.
As a strong cold front moves through, the temperature will drop sharply to 24°F (-4°C) by early morning, turning rain into light snow and icy conditions. Winds will remain gusty, adding to the wintery chill.
Roads could become dangerously slick overnight, especially on bridges and overpasses where ice forms quickly.
Saturday: More Rain, Then the Deep Freeze Hits
Saturday will start off wet, with continued rain and possible thunderstorms, pushing the high up to 48°F (9°C) in the morning. But this warmth will be short-lived.
By the afternoon, cold air will surge in from the northwest, quickly turning rain into snow as temperatures plunge again into the low 20s. The wind will intensify, making it feel even colder. Any lingering moisture on roads and sidewalks will freeze rapidly, creating hazardous travel conditions.
Sunday: A Bitterly Cold Wake-Up Call
When St. Louis wakes up on Sunday, it’ll be a completely different world from what we saw on Friday. Morning temperatures will sit at just 24°F (-4°C), and it won’t get much warmer throughout the day, with a high of only 27°F (-3°C).
Strong north winds will continue, making it feel even colder than the actual temperature. The sky will remain mostly cloudy, and although the snow will taper off, icy conditions could persist throughout the day.
What This Means for You
- If you’re driving tonight, be extremely cautious. The rain will start as regular showers but could quickly transition into ice overnight. Roads will become slippery, especially after midnight.
- Expect delays and dangerous travel conditions early Saturday morning. Ice could form on untreated roads, making the morning commute treacherous.
- If you need to be outside, bundle up! The wind chill on Sunday will make it feel much colder than the actual temperature. Make sure to dress in layers and cover exposed skin to avoid frostbite.
- Power outages are possible. With thunderstorms, high winds, and a sudden freeze, there’s a chance of fallen branches and power interruptions. Keep flashlights, blankets, and emergency supplies handy.
Final Thoughts: St. Louis is in for a Wild Weather Ride
This weekend’s dramatic shift from rain and mild temperatures to snow and bitter cold will be a wake-up call for anyone still hoping for an early spring. Stay prepared, drive carefully, and keep an eye on updated forecasts.
