St. Louis residents are waking up to an unprecedented chill, as an Arctic cold front descends upon the city, bringing temperatures much lower than usual for late February. On Friday, February 21, 2025, St. Louis is seeing bitterly cold temperatures, with the mercury dropping to just 7°F (-14°C).
This sudden drop in temperatures is part of a widespread Arctic outbreak that is sweeping across the United States, sending temperatures plummeting from Montana to Florida, and putting millions of people at risk for frostbite and other cold-related illnesses.
What’s the Weather Forecast for St. Louis?
- Friday, February 21 – A sunny but cold day with a high of 25°F (-4°C). Expect low temperatures of 14°F (-10°C) overnight. The coldest part of the day will be in the early morning hours when the chill feels even sharper due to wind chill.
- Saturday, February 22 – The cold will ease up slightly, with more sunshine and a high of 40°F (4°C). Lows will stay cold, around 23°F (-5°C).
- Sunday, February 23 – A milder day with partly sunny skies, reaching 53°F (12°C) in the afternoon. The low will be 34°F (1°C) at night.
- Monday, February 24 – Warmer with sun through high clouds. Temperatures will hit 62°F (16°C) during the day and drop to 35°F (2°C) at night.
- Tuesday, February 25 – Plenty of sunshine and a high of 58°F (15°C), with a low of 36°F (2°C).
- Wednesday, February 26 – The weather will become cloudy in the afternoon, with breezy conditions and a couple of showers. Expect a high of 57°F (14°C) and lows near 35°F (2°C).
- Thursday, February 27 – A cooler day with morning showers, followed by partly sunny skies, a high of 47°F (8°C), and a low of 28°F (-2°C).
Why Is St. Louis So Cold Right Now?
This Arctic blast is part of a large-scale cold front that is sweeping across the country. The cause of the sudden and extreme drop in temperatures? A polar vortex—a mass of extremely cold air that typically sits around the Arctic—has shifted southward, bringing bone-chilling temperatures to regions that don’t usually experience such extreme cold.
While St. Louis is no stranger to cold winters, this current Arctic freeze is more intense than usual for this time of year. Normally, February in St. Louis sees temperatures in the 40s and 50s, but this cold snap is plunging temperatures well below the average.
The polar vortex has sent subzero temperatures and strong winds to the Midwest, while cities like Kansas City, Omaha, and Minneapolis are seeing dangerously cold wind chills. Even parts of the Gulf Coast are experiencing unseasonably low temperatures in the 20s and 30s. This deep freeze will set new daily low-temperature records for the region, making this cold spell one to remember.
How to Stay Safe During This Extreme Cold
- Dress warmly – Layering is essential during these freezing temperatures. Wear thermal clothing, gloves, and scarves to protect yourself from the cold.
- Limit outdoor activity – When temperatures drop this low, even short exposure to the elements can cause frostbite. Avoid going outside unless absolutely necessary.
- Protect your home – If your pipes are at risk of freezing, let your faucets drip and open cabinet doors to keep warm air circulating around pipes.
- Check on vulnerable people – The elderly and those without proper heating are at a greater risk during these extreme temperatures. Make sure friends, family, and neighbors are staying warm.
- Be cautious on the roads – Icy conditions can form quickly in the early morning and late evening hours, particularly on bridges and overpasses. Drive with caution and avoid traveling if you can.
When Will the Cold End?
The cold snap is expected to last through the weekend, but there is light at the end of the tunnel. By Sunday, temperatures will start to rise, and by Monday, St. Louis will experience a significant warm-up with highs in the 60s.
As the Arctic front retreats, temperatures will return to more typical late February weather, with highs closer to the 40s and 50s by next week. However, be prepared for another cold surge in the coming weeks, as weather patterns can shift quickly.
For now, brace yourself for a cold few days ahead and stay informed about the latest updates from your local weather station. This cold snap won’t last forever, but make sure you take precautions to stay safe during this rare and intense winter weather.
