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Climate of Missouri
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 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (June 2007) |
Missouri generally has a variety of seasonal humid subtropical climate (Köppen climate classification Cfa), with cool winters and long, hot summers. In the southern part of the state, particularly in the Bootheel, the climate borders on a more mild-type humid subtropical climate (Köppen Cfa), and in the northern third, the state transitions into a humid continental climate (Köppen Dfa). Because of its location in the interior United States, Missouri often experiences extremes in temperatures. Lacking either large mountains or oceans nearby to moderate its temperature, its climate is alternately influenced by air from the cold Arctic and the hot and humid Gulf of Mexico.
Overview
[edit]| Month | Precipitation | Temp |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.1 in | 29.8 °F |
| Feb | 2.0 in | 33.8 °F |
| March | 3.3 in | 43.5 °F |
| April | 4.0 in | 54.6 °F |
| May | 4.8 in | 64.2 °F |
| June | 4.65 in | 73 °F |
| July | 3.8 in | 77.6 °F |
| Aug | 3.7 in | 76 °F |
| Sep | 4.0 in | 68.3 °F |
| Oct | 3.2 in | 57.1 °F |
| Nov | 2.9 in | 44 °F |
| Dec | 2.4 in | 33.3 °F |
While the adjacent table would suggest a very mild climate, a temperature fluctuation of 20 degrees Fahrenheit on average and 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit (17 to 22 degrees Celsius) in a twenty-four-hour period is common. Although the mean temperature for June and July is only 73 and 76 °F (23 and 24 °C) it is not uncommon for the temperature to reach 100 °F (38 °C) at least three concurrent days each week in these months, as it did in 1904 during the World Fair where the temperature in St. Louis, Missouri was 103 °F (39 °C).
Statistics for selected cities
[edit]| Climate data for Columbia Regional Airport, Missouri (1991–2020 normals,[a] extremes 1889–present)[b] | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Record high °F (°C) | 77 (25) |
82 (28) |
92 (33) |
93 (34) |
101 (38) |
107 (42) |
113 (45) |
110 (43) |
104 (40) |
96 (36) |
84 (29) |
76 (24) |
113 (45) |
| Mean maximum °F (°C) | 63.1 (17.3) |
69.9 (21.1) |
78.8 (26.0) |
84.8 (29.3) |
87.9 (31.1) |
93.0 (33.9) |
97.1 (36.2) |
97.8 (36.6) |
91.6 (33.1) |
85.0 (29.4) |
74.0 (23.3) |
66.3 (19.1) |
99.4 (37.4) |
| Mean daily maximum °F (°C) | 39.5 (4.2) |
45.1 (7.3) |
56.3 (13.5) |
67.2 (19.6) |
75.9 (24.4) |
84.5 (29.2) |
88.5 (31.4) |
87.7 (30.9) |
80.1 (26.7) |
68.2 (20.1) |
54.7 (12.6) |
43.6 (6.4) |
65.9 (18.8) |
| Daily mean °F (°C) | 31.0 (−0.6) |
35.7 (2.1) |
46.0 (7.8) |
56.4 (13.6) |
65.8 (18.8) |
74.6 (23.7) |
78.5 (25.8) |
77.2 (25.1) |
69.2 (20.7) |
57.5 (14.2) |
45.3 (7.4) |
35.2 (1.8) |
56.0 (13.3) |
| Mean daily minimum °F (°C) | 22.5 (−5.3) |
26.4 (−3.1) |
35.6 (2.0) |
45.6 (7.6) |
55.7 (13.2) |
64.7 (18.2) |
68.5 (20.3) |
66.7 (19.3) |
58.3 (14.6) |
46.8 (8.2) |
36.0 (2.2) |
26.7 (−2.9) |
46.1 (7.8) |
| Mean minimum °F (°C) | 0.4 (−17.6) |
5.4 (−14.8) |
14.7 (−9.6) |
28.6 (−1.9) |
39.9 (4.4) |
52.2 (11.2) |
57.9 (14.4) |
55.8 (13.2) |
42.1 (5.6) |
29.2 (−1.6) |
17.3 (−8.2) |
6.7 (−14.1) |
−3.4 (−19.7) |
| Record low °F (°C) | −20 (−29) |
−26 (−32) |
−9 (−23) |
14 (−10) |
28 (−2) |
40 (4) |
45 (7) |
40 (4) |
26 (−3) |
19 (−7) |
−3 (−19) |
−23 (−31) |
−26 (−32) |
| Average precipitation inches (mm) | 2.12 (54) |
2.12 (54) |
2.97 (75) |
4.88 (124) |
4.77 (121) |
4.23 (107) |
4.13 (105) |
4.14 (105) |
3.83 (97) |
3.47 (88) |
2.68 (68) |
2.09 (53) |
41.43 (1,052) |
| Average snowfall inches (cm) | 6.0 (15) |
4.6 (12) |
1.5 (3.8) |
0.2 (0.51) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.8 (2.0) |
3.4 (8.6) |
16.5 (42) |
| Average extreme snow depth inches (cm) | 3.7 (9.4) |
3.2 (8.1) |
1.3 (3.3) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.4 (1.0) |
2.1 (5.3) |
6.2 (16) |
| Average precipitation days (≥ 0.01 in) | 8.2 | 8.3 | 11.1 | 11.3 | 12.6 | 9.3 | 8.8 | 8.5 | 7.3 | 9.1 | 8.5 | 7.8 | 110.8 |
| Average rainy days | 6.8 | 7.8 | 12.4 | 14.0 | 15.0 | 12.1 | 10.4 | 11.3 | 11.4 | 12.1 | 11.0 | 10.2 | 134.5 |
| Average snowy days (≥ 0.1 in) | 3.6 | 2.8 | 1.1 | 0.2 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.1 | 0.8 | 2.1 | 10.7 |
| Average relative humidity (%) | 71.2 | 71.5 | 67.3 | 63.9 | 70.9 | 71.3 | 69.5 | 70.8 | 71.7 | 69.4 | 71.8 | 74.0 | 70.3 |
| Average dew point °F (°C) | 18.3 (−7.6) |
22.8 (−5.1) |
32.0 (0.0) |
41.2 (5.1) |
52.7 (11.5) |
61.9 (16.6) |
65.7 (18.7) |
63.9 (17.7) |
57.0 (13.9) |
44.4 (6.9) |
34.0 (1.1) |
23.7 (−4.6) |
43.1 (6.2) |
| Mean monthly sunshine hours | 161.5 | 154.3 | 193.5 | 226.9 | 264.1 | 294.1 | 313.4 | 288.5 | 229.1 | 210.7 | 150.6 | 140.3 | 2,627 |
| Percentage possible sunshine | 53 | 51 | 52 | 57 | 60 | 66 | 69 | 68 | 61 | 61 | 50 | 48 | 59 |
| Average ultraviolet index | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 6 |
| Source 1: NOAA (rain/drizzle days, relative humidity and dew point 1969–1990, sun 1961–1990)[2][3][4] | |||||||||||||
| Source 2: Weather Atlas (UV)[5] | |||||||||||||
| Climate data for Kansas City, Missouri (Downtown Airport), 1991–2020 normals,[c] extremes 1934–present) | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Record high °F (°C) | 76 (24) |
83 (28) |
89 (32) |
94 (34) |
103 (39) |
108 (42) |
112 (44) |
113 (45) |
109 (43) |
98 (37) |
83 (28) |
75 (24) |
113 (45) |
| Mean maximum °F (°C) | 62.9 (17.2) |
68.4 (20.2) |
78.6 (25.9) |
84.3 (29.1) |
90.1 (32.3) |
95.4 (35.2) |
100.0 (37.8) |
99.9 (37.7) |
93.8 (34.3) |
86.0 (30.0) |
73.5 (23.1) |
65.2 (18.4) |
101.7 (38.7) |
| Mean daily maximum °F (°C) | 39.9 (4.4) |
45.1 (7.3) |
56.6 (13.7) |
66.8 (19.3) |
76.2 (24.6) |
85.8 (29.9) |
90.2 (32.3) |
88.6 (31.4) |
80.4 (26.9) |
68.2 (20.1) |
54.5 (12.5) |
43.9 (6.6) |
66.3 (19.1) |
| Daily mean °F (°C) | 31.0 (−0.6) |
35.8 (2.1) |
46.4 (8.0) |
56.5 (13.6) |
66.7 (19.3) |
76.5 (24.7) |
81.0 (27.2) |
79.2 (26.2) |
70.7 (21.5) |
58.4 (14.7) |
45.4 (7.4) |
35.3 (1.8) |
56.9 (13.8) |
| Mean daily minimum °F (°C) | 22.2 (−5.4) |
26.4 (−3.1) |
36.2 (2.3) |
46.3 (7.9) |
57.2 (14.0) |
67.2 (19.6) |
71.9 (22.2) |
69.9 (21.1) |
61.0 (16.1) |
48.7 (9.3) |
36.3 (2.4) |
26.7 (−2.9) |
47.5 (8.6) |
| Mean minimum °F (°C) | 2.7 (−16.3) |
8.4 (−13.1) |
16.4 (−8.7) |
31.0 (−0.6) |
42.6 (5.9) |
55.1 (12.8) |
62.4 (16.9) |
60.1 (15.6) |
46.4 (8.0) |
32.4 (0.2) |
19.7 (−6.8) |
8.2 (−13.2) |
−0.7 (−18.2) |
| Record low °F (°C) | −14 (−26) |
−13 (−25) |
−3 (−19) |
16 (−9) |
32 (0) |
44 (7) |
52 (11) |
48 (9) |
34 (1) |
21 (−6) |
5 (−15) |
−19 (−28) |
−19 (−28) |
| Average precipitation inches (mm) | 1.02 (26) |
1.53 (39) |
2.08 (53) |
3.89 (99) |
5.10 (130) |
5.33 (135) |
4.38 (111) |
4.68 (119) |
3.78 (96) |
3.24 (82) |
1.80 (46) |
1.30 (33) |
38.13 (969) |
| Average snowfall inches (cm) | 3.4 (8.6) |
3.2 (8.1) |
0.4 (1.0) |
0.1 (0.25) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.3 (0.76) |
0.1 (0.25) |
3.5 (8.9) |
11.0 (28) |
| Average precipitation days (≥ 0.01 in) | 4.6 | 4.8 | 6.8 | 9.3 | 11.0 | 9.5 | 7.9 | 7.8 | 7.6 | 7.0 | 5.2 | 4.6 | 86.1 |
| Average snowy days (≥ 0.1 in) | 2.2 | 1.6 | 0.4 | 0.1 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.1 | 0.1 | 1.9 | 6.4 |
| Source: NOAA[6][7] | |||||||||||||
| Climate data for Kansas City Int'l, Missouri (1991–2020 normals,[c] extremes 1888–present)[d] | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Record high °F (°C) | 75 (24) |
83 (28) |
91 (33) |
95 (35) |
103 (39) |
108 (42) |
112 (44) |
113 (45) |
109 (43) |
98 (37) |
83 (28) |
74 (23) |
113 (45) |
| Mean maximum °F (°C) | 62.0 (16.7) |
67.5 (19.7) |
78.8 (26.0) |
84.5 (29.2) |
88.9 (31.6) |
93.5 (34.2) |
97.9 (36.6) |
98.1 (36.7) |
92.6 (33.7) |
85.9 (29.9) |
72.6 (22.6) |
64.3 (17.9) |
99.7 (37.6) |
| Mean daily maximum °F (°C) | 38.4 (3.6) |
43.6 (6.4) |
55.4 (13.0) |
65.5 (18.6) |
75.0 (23.9) |
84.2 (29.0) |
88.3 (31.3) |
87.1 (30.6) |
79.2 (26.2) |
67.2 (19.6) |
53.5 (11.9) |
42.3 (5.7) |
65.0 (18.3) |
| Daily mean °F (°C) | 29.0 (−1.7) |
33.6 (0.9) |
44.5 (6.9) |
54.6 (12.6) |
64.6 (18.1) |
74.1 (23.4) |
78.2 (25.7) |
76.7 (24.8) |
68.4 (20.2) |
56.4 (13.6) |
43.6 (6.4) |
33.1 (0.6) |
54.7 (12.6) |
| Mean daily minimum °F (°C) | 19.5 (−6.9) |
23.6 (−4.7) |
33.6 (0.9) |
43.7 (6.5) |
54.3 (12.4) |
64.0 (17.8) |
68.1 (20.1) |
66.3 (19.1) |
57.5 (14.2) |
45.6 (7.6) |
33.6 (0.9) |
23.9 (−4.5) |
44.5 (6.9) |
| Mean minimum °F (°C) | −1.5 (−18.6) |
4.3 (−15.4) |
13.3 (−10.4) |
27.8 (−2.3) |
39.4 (4.1) |
51.6 (10.9) |
58.3 (14.6) |
56.0 (13.3) |
41.9 (5.5) |
28.5 (−1.9) |
16.3 (−8.7) |
4.4 (−15.3) |
−5.2 (−20.7) |
| Record low °F (°C) | −20 (−29) |
−22 (−30) |
−10 (−23) |
12 (−11) |
27 (−3) |
42 (6) |
51 (11) |
43 (6) |
31 (−1) |
17 (−8) |
1 (−17) |
−23 (−31) |
−23 (−31) |
| Average precipitation inches (mm) | 1.16 (29) |
1.48 (38) |
2.36 (60) |
4.05 (103) |
5.32 (135) |
5.25 (133) |
4.58 (116) |
4.24 (108) |
4.04 (103) |
3.25 (83) |
2.00 (51) |
1.57 (40) |
39.30 (998) |
| Average snowfall inches (cm) | 4.9 (12) |
5.9 (15) |
1.7 (4.3) |
0.3 (0.76) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.3 (0.76) |
1.1 (2.8) |
4.0 (10) |
18.2 (46) |
| Average extreme snow depth inches (cm) | 3.2 (8.1) |
3.4 (8.6) |
1.9 (4.8) |
0.1 (0.25) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.1 (0.25) |
0.6 (1.5) |
2.4 (6.1) |
5.3 (13) |
| Average precipitation days (≥ 0.01 in) | 6.8 | 6.7 | 9.5 | 11.3 | 12.1 | 10.2 | 9.0 | 8.4 | 8.3 | 8.1 | 6.8 | 6.5 | 103.7 |
| Average snowy days (≥ 0.1 in) | 4.4 | 3.1 | 1.7 | 0.4 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.2 | 1.0 | 3.0 | 13.8 |
| Average relative humidity (%) | 68.8 | 69.6 | 66.7 | 62.9 | 68.0 | 69.2 | 67.4 | 70.0 | 70.4 | 67.1 | 69.7 | 71.0 | 68.4 |
| Average dew point °F (°C) | 16.5 (−8.6) |
21.4 (−5.9) |
31.6 (−0.2) |
40.6 (4.8) |
52.0 (11.1) |
61.5 (16.4) |
65.8 (18.8) |
64.4 (18.0) |
56.7 (13.7) |
43.5 (6.4) |
32.5 (0.3) |
21.0 (−6.1) |
42.3 (5.7) |
| Mean monthly sunshine hours | 183.7 | 174.3 | 223.9 | 257.8 | 285.0 | 305.5 | 329.3 | 293.9 | 240.5 | 213.6 | 155.3 | 147.1 | 2,809.9 |
| Percentage possible sunshine | 61 | 58 | 60 | 65 | 64 | 68 | 74 | 69 | 64 | 62 | 52 | 50 | 63 |
| Average ultraviolet index | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 6 |
| Source: NOAA (relative humidity, dew point, and sun 1972–1990)[6][8][9][10] | |||||||||||||
| Climate data for St. Louis, Missouri (Lambert–St. Louis Int'l), 1991–2020 normals,[e] extremes 1874–present[f] | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Record high °F (°C) | 77 (25) |
85 (29) |
92 (33) |
93 (34) |
98 (37) |
108 (42) |
115 (46) |
110 (43) |
104 (40) |
94 (34) |
86 (30) |
76 (24) |
115 (46) |
| Mean maximum °F (°C) | 64.7 (18.2) |
71.0 (21.7) |
79.4 (26.3) |
86.4 (30.2) |
90.4 (32.4) |
95.5 (35.3) |
99.2 (37.3) |
99.1 (37.3) |
93.4 (34.1) |
87.0 (30.6) |
75.5 (24.2) |
66.9 (19.4) |
100.7 (38.2) |
| Mean daily maximum °F (°C) | 40.4 (4.7) |
45.8 (7.7) |
56.6 (13.7) |
68.0 (20.0) |
77.1 (25.1) |
85.9 (29.9) |
89.6 (32.0) |
88.3 (31.3) |
81.1 (27.3) |
69.2 (20.7) |
55.5 (13.1) |
44.5 (6.9) |
66.8 (19.3) |
| Daily mean °F (°C) | 32.1 (0.1) |
36.7 (2.6) |
46.6 (8.1) |
57.5 (14.2) |
67.5 (19.7) |
76.5 (24.7) |
80.4 (26.9) |
78.8 (26.0) |
71.0 (21.7) |
59.1 (15.1) |
46.5 (8.1) |
36.5 (2.5) |
57.4 (14.1) |
| Mean daily minimum °F (°C) | 23.8 (−4.6) |
27.6 (−2.4) |
36.7 (2.6) |
47.0 (8.3) |
57.9 (14.4) |
67.2 (19.6) |
71.1 (21.7) |
69.3 (20.7) |
60.9 (16.1) |
49.1 (9.5) |
37.4 (3.0) |
28.5 (−1.9) |
48.0 (8.9) |
| Mean minimum °F (°C) | 4.4 (−15.3) |
9.6 (−12.4) |
17.8 (−7.9) |
32.2 (0.1) |
43.5 (6.4) |
55.5 (13.1) |
61.4 (16.3) |
60.1 (15.6) |
47.1 (8.4) |
33.6 (0.9) |
22.0 (−5.6) |
11.0 (−11.7) |
1.2 (−17.1) |
| Record low °F (°C) | −22 (−30) |
−18 (−28) |
−5 (−21) |
20 (−7) |
31 (−1) |
43 (6) |
51 (11) |
47 (8) |
32 (0) |
21 (−6) |
1 (−17) |
−16 (−27) |
−22 (−30) |
| Average precipitation inches (mm) | 2.59 (66) |
2.23 (57) |
3.50 (89) |
4.73 (120) |
4.82 (122) |
4.49 (114) |
3.93 (100) |
3.38 (86) |
2.96 (75) |
3.15 (80) |
3.42 (87) |
2.50 (64) |
41.70 (1,059) |
| Average snowfall inches (cm) | 5.7 (14) |
4.3 (11) |
2.3 (5.8) |
0.2 (0.51) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.9 (2.3) |
3.2 (8.1) |
16.6 (42) |
| Average precipitation days (≥ 0.01 in) | 9.3 | 8.7 | 10.8 | 11.5 | 12.6 | 9.8 | 8.9 | 8.4 | 7.3 | 8.5 | 9.0 | 9.0 | 113.8 |
| Average snowy days (≥ 0.1 in) | 4.7 | 3.9 | 1.7 | 0.2 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.8 | 3.2 | 14.5 |
| Average relative humidity (%) | 73.0 | 72.0 | 68.3 | 63.5 | 66.5 | 67.1 | 68.0 | 70.0 | 71.6 | 68.7 | 72.2 | 75.8 | 69.7 |
| Average dew point °F (°C) | 20.1 (−6.6) |
24.1 (−4.4) |
33.1 (0.6) |
42.3 (5.7) |
52.9 (11.6) |
62.1 (16.7) |
66.6 (19.2) |
65.1 (18.4) |
58.6 (14.8) |
46.0 (7.8) |
36.0 (2.2) |
25.5 (−3.6) |
44.4 (6.9) |
| Mean monthly sunshine hours | 161.2 | 158.3 | 198.3 | 223.5 | 266.5 | 291.9 | 308.9 | 269.8 | 236.1 | 208.4 | 140.9 | 129.9 | 2,593.7 |
| Percentage possible sunshine | 53 | 53 | 53 | 56 | 60 | 66 | 68 | 64 | 63 | 60 | 47 | 44 | 58 |
| Average ultraviolet index | 1.7 | 2.7 | 4.5 | 6.4 | 7.9 | 9.0 | 9.1 | 8.2 | 6.3 | 4.0 | 2.3 | — | — |
| Source 1: NOAA (relative humidity, dew point, and sun 1961−1990)[12][13][14] | |||||||||||||
| Source 2: UV Index Today (1995 to 2022)[15] | |||||||||||||
| Climate data for Springfield–Branson National Airport, Missouri (1991−2020 normals,[g] extremes 1888−present[h]) | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Record high °F (°C) | 76 (24) |
84 (29) |
92 (33) |
93 (34) |
95 (35) |
101 (38) |
113 (45) |
108 (42) |
104 (40) |
93 (34) |
83 (28) |
77 (25) |
113 (45) |
| Mean maximum °F (°C) | 66.8 (19.3) |
72.0 (22.2) |
78.9 (26.1) |
83.5 (28.6) |
87.4 (30.8) |
92.5 (33.6) |
96.8 (36.0) |
98.2 (36.8) |
92.6 (33.7) |
85.0 (29.4) |
74.7 (23.7) |
67.4 (19.7) |
99.1 (37.3) |
| Mean daily maximum °F (°C) | 44.3 (6.8) |
49.5 (9.7) |
58.9 (14.9) |
68.4 (20.2) |
76.3 (24.6) |
85.2 (29.6) |
89.6 (32.0) |
89.1 (31.7) |
81.4 (27.4) |
69.9 (21.1) |
57.3 (14.1) |
47.0 (8.3) |
68.1 (20.1) |
| Daily mean °F (°C) | 34.3 (1.3) |
38.7 (3.7) |
47.6 (8.7) |
57.0 (13.9) |
66.0 (18.9) |
74.9 (23.8) |
79.2 (26.2) |
78.2 (25.7) |
70.3 (21.3) |
58.6 (14.8) |
46.7 (8.2) |
37.4 (3.0) |
57.4 (14.1) |
| Mean daily minimum °F (°C) | 24.2 (−4.3) |
28.0 (−2.2) |
36.2 (2.3) |
45.6 (7.6) |
55.6 (13.1) |
64.6 (18.1) |
68.8 (20.4) |
67.3 (19.6) |
59.1 (15.1) |
47.3 (8.5) |
36.2 (2.3) |
27.8 (−2.3) |
46.7 (8.2) |
| Mean minimum °F (°C) | 3.5 (−15.8) |
8.4 (−13.1) |
15.9 (−8.9) |
28.1 (−2.2) |
38.9 (3.8) |
51.8 (11.0) |
58.3 (14.6) |
55.5 (13.1) |
42.7 (5.9) |
29.3 (−1.5) |
18.1 (−7.7) |
8.1 (−13.3) |
−1.0 (−18.3) |
| Record low °F (°C) | −19 (−28) |
−29 (−34) |
−8 (−22) |
16 (−9) |
29 (−2) |
42 (6) |
44 (7) |
44 (7) |
30 (−1) |
18 (−8) |
4 (−16) |
−16 (−27) |
−29 (−34) |
| Average precipitation inches (mm) | 2.54 (65) |
2.40 (61) |
3.51 (89) |
4.71 (120) |
5.56 (141) |
4.47 (114) |
3.85 (98) |
3.59 (91) |
4.31 (109) |
3.60 (91) |
3.56 (90) |
2.61 (66) |
44.71 (1,136) |
| Average snowfall inches (cm) | 4.4 (11) |
3.3 (8.4) |
2.0 (5.1) |
0.1 (0.25) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.6 (1.5) |
3.3 (8.4) |
13.7 (35) |
| Average precipitation days (≥ 0.01 in) | 8.1 | 7.7 | 10.7 | 10.8 | 12.4 | 10.2 | 8.8 | 8.3 | 7.4 | 9.0 | 8.6 | 8.0 | 110.0 |
| Average snowy days (≥ 0.1 in) | 3.4 | 2.5 | 1.2 | 0.1 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.1 | 0.7 | 2.2 | 10.2 |
| Average relative humidity (%) | 68.3 | 68.5 | 65.2 | 64.5 | 70.7 | 72.3 | 70.4 | 69.5 | 72.9 | 68.2 | 69.6 | 70.9 | 69.3 |
| Average dew point °F (°C) | 20.8 (−6.2) |
25.0 (−3.9) |
33.1 (0.6) |
43.0 (6.1) |
53.8 (12.1) |
62.4 (16.9) |
65.8 (18.8) |
63.9 (17.7) |
58.1 (14.5) |
45.3 (7.4) |
35.1 (1.7) |
25.5 (−3.6) |
44.3 (6.8) |
| Mean monthly sunshine hours | 167.6 | 157.4 | 208.7 | 236.4 | 268.0 | 282.7 | 321.6 | 292.1 | 237.6 | 217.3 | 155.1 | 145.9 | 2,690.4 |
| Percentage possible sunshine | 54 | 52 | 56 | 60 | 61 | 64 | 72 | 70 | 64 | 62 | 51 | 49 | 60 |
| Source: NOAA (relative humidity, dew point, and sun 1961−1990)[16][17][18] | |||||||||||||
Spring
[edit]Spring is generally the wettest season of the year, with the mean temperature from 1895 until 2003 being about 12 °C (54 °F) and its mean precipitation (in the form of rain) for this period being approximately 300 mm (12 in). April through June is generally the wettest period. The spring also produces the most tornadoes, with an average of 35 tornadoes each year.
Summer
[edit]Summer, June through August, is the hottest time of the year with a mean temperature of 24 °C (75 °F) and a mean precipitation of 300 mm (12 in) with June having more precipitation than either July or August. The extreme highs for the year often occur in July or August. Tropical cyclones and their remains can impact the state during this time of the year, contributing to area rainfall.
Autumn
[edit]Fall, September through November, has less and less precipitation towards the end of the season. The mean temperatures for this season are 13.6 °C (56.5 °F) and the mean precipitation is 250 mm (9.8 in). Tropical cyclones and their remains can impact the state into October, contributing to area rainfall.
Winter
[edit]
Winters in Missouri can be long with temperatures ranging from mildly to bitterly cold. Kansas City's January daily mean temperature is 26 °F (−3 °C) and St. Louis's is 29 °F (−2 °C). The coldest temperature ever recorded in Missouri was −40 °F (−40 °C), set at Warsaw on 13 February 1905. Winter also tends to be the driest season, but typically yields significant amounts of winter precipitation. Snowfall averages 20 inches (51 cm) in the state's northern region, and 10 inches (25 cm) in the southeast. During the winter, northwest winds prevail; the air movement is largely from the south and southeast during the rest of the year.[19]
See also
[edit]Notes
[edit]- ^ Mean monthly maxima and minima (i.e. the highest and lowest temperature readings during an entire month or year) calculated based on data at said location from 1991 to 2020.
- ^ Official records for Columbia kept at downtown from August 1889 to December 1947, Columbia Municipal Airport from January 1948 to October 1969 and at Columbia Regional Airport since November 1969.[1]
- ^ a b Mean monthly maxima and minima (i.e. the expected highest and lowest temperature readings at any point during the year or given month) calculated based on data at said location from 1991 to 2020.
- ^ Official records for Kansas City kept at downtown/Weather Bureau Office from July 1888 to December 1933; Downtown Airport from January 1934 to September 1972; and Kansas City Int'l since October 1972. For more information see ThreadEx.
- ^ Mean monthly maxima and minima (i.e. the highest and lowest temperature readings during an entire month or year) calculated based on data at said location from 1991 to 2020.
- ^ Official records for St. Louis were kept at the Weather Bureau Office from January 1874 to December 1892, Eads Bridge from January 1893 to December 1929, and at Lambert–St. Louis Int'l since January 1930.[11]
- ^ Mean monthly maxima and minima (i.e. the highest and lowest temperature readings during an entire month or year) calculated based on data at said location from 1991 to 2020.
- ^ Official records for Springfield were kept at downtown from January 1888 to December 1939, Downtown Airport from January 1940 to July 1940, and at Springfield–Branson National Airport since August 1940. For more information, see ThreadEx.
References
[edit]- ^ ThreadEx
- ^ "Station: Columbia RGNL AP, MS". U.S. Climate Normals 2020: U.S. Monthly Climate Normals (1991–2020). National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved July 21, 2021.
- ^ "NowData – NOAA Online Weather Data". National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved July 21, 2021.
- ^ "WMO Climate Normals for Columbia/Regional ARPT, MO 1961–1990". National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved July 21, 2021.
- ^ "Columbia, MO - Detailed climate information and monthly weather forecast". Weather Atlas. Yu Media Group. Retrieved July 4, 2019.
- ^ a b "NowData – NOAA Online Weather Data". National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved July 27, 2021.
- ^ "Station: Kansas City Downtown AP, MO". U.S. Climate Normals 2020: U.S. Monthly Climate Normals (1991–2020). National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved July 27, 2021.
- ^ "Station: Kansas City INTL AP, MO". U.S. Climate Normals 2020: U.S. Monthly Climate Normals (1991–2020). National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved July 27, 2021.
- ^ "WMO Climate Normals for KANSAS CITY/INTL ARPT MO 1961–1990". National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved July 25, 2020.
- ^ "Kansas City, Missouri, USA - Monthly weather forecast and Climate data". Weather Atlas. Retrieved 4 July 2019.
- ^ ThreadEx
- ^ "Station Name: MO ST LOUIS LAMBERT INTL AP". U.S. Climate Normals 2020: U.S. Monthly Climate Normals (1991–2020). National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved July 22, 2021.
- ^ "NowData – NOAA Online Weather Data". National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved July 22, 2021.
- ^ "WMO Climate Normals for ST. LOUIS/LAMBERT, MO 1961–1990". National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved July 22, 2021.
- ^ "Historical UV Index Data - St. Louis, MO". UV Index Today. Retrieved April 22, 2023.
- ^ "NowData – NOAA Online Weather Data". National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved August 2, 2021.
- ^ "Station: Springfield, MO". U.S. Climate Normals 2020: U.S. Monthly Climate Normals (1991–2020). National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved August 2, 2021.
- ^ "WMO Climate Normals for SPRINGFIELD/REGIONAL AP MO 1961–1990". National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved August 2, 2021.
- ^ Missouri-Climate
Climate of Missouri
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Introduction
Overview
Missouri features a temperate continental climate characterized by four distinct seasons, with hot and humid summers, mild autumns, cool springs, and cold winters that often include snow. The state experiences significant weather variability due to its central location in the United States, where contrasting air masses frequently interact. Summers are typically warm to hot, with average highs exceeding 85°F (29°C) in July, while winters bring average lows below freezing, occasionally dipping into subzero temperatures. This seasonal contrast supports diverse agriculture, including corn, soybeans, and livestock, but also exposes the state to extreme events like thunderstorms and occasional tornadoes.[3] The statewide average annual temperature, based on 1991–2020 normals, is approximately 55°F (13°C), calculated as the mean of daily high and low temperatures. Annual precipitation averages about 43.5 inches (110 cm), distributed relatively evenly throughout the year but with peaks in spring and summer from convective storms. These values reflect the influence of the state's position at the confluence of polar continental air from the north and moist tropical air from the Gulf of Mexico, leading to dynamic weather patterns.[4][4] Missouri's central U.S. placement contributes to rapid weather changes, including daily temperature swings that can reach up to 40°F (22°C) or more, as seen in notable events like a 50°F drop in less than three hours during a November cold front in 2009. Such variability underscores the state's transitional climate zone, bridging humid subtropical influences in the south and more continental conditions in the north. This overview sets the stage for examining formal climate classifications and specific influences in subsequent sections.[5]Climate Classification
Missouri's climate is primarily classified using the Köppen-Geiger system, a widely used framework that categorizes global climates based on native vegetation, temperature thresholds, and precipitation patterns.[6] The state predominantly features a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) across much of its area, particularly in the southern and central regions, while transitioning to a humid continental climate (Dfa) in the northern Ozarks and northern plains.[7] This classification reflects the state's position at the interface between warmer southern influences and cooler northern air masses. The Cfa zone, characteristic of most of Missouri, is defined by hot summers where the average temperature of the warmest month exceeds 22°C (71.6°F), mild winters with no monthly average below 0°C (32°F), and year-round precipitation without a pronounced dry season.[6] These conditions support diverse agriculture and lush vegetation, with humid conditions persisting through all seasons. In contrast, the Dfa zone in northern areas includes hot summers (warmest month above 22°C or 71.6°F), but features colder winters where at least one month averages below 0°C (32°F), alongside evenly distributed precipitation throughout the year.[6] This leads to greater seasonal temperature variability and occasional harsh winter weather in those regions. A transitional zone exists roughly along the 38th parallel, marking a north-south gradient in climate characteristics, as visualized in updated Köppen-Geiger maps for the United States.[8] The Bootheel region in southeastern Missouri exhibits a stronger subtropical (Cfa) influence due to its lower elevation and proximity to the Mississippi River floodplain, resulting in warmer overall temperatures compared to higher northern elevations.[1]Climatic Influences
Geographical Features
Missouri occupies a central position in the contiguous United States, extending from approximately 36° N to 40.6° N latitude and 89.1° W to 95.8° W longitude. This inland location exposes the state to a wide array of weather influences, including warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico to the south, cold continental air masses from the north, and variable flows from the west, all facilitated by the absence of major mountain barriers that could otherwise block or redirect atmospheric circulation. As a result, Missouri experiences significant climatic variability without the moderating effects seen in coastal or topographically shielded regions.[9] The state's topography further shapes its climate through contrasts in elevation and landform. Northern Missouri features gently rolling glacial plains with elevations typically ranging from 500 to 1,000 feet above sea level, promoting relatively uniform temperature and precipitation patterns across expansive agricultural landscapes. In contrast, southern Missouri is dominated by the Ozark Plateau, a dissected upland region with elevations rising to a maximum of 1,772 feet at Taum Sauk Mountain in Iron County. The Ozarks' higher terrain leads to cooler average temperatures and contributes to the generally higher precipitation observed in southern Missouri compared to the north.[10][11][12] Major river systems, including the Mississippi along the eastern border and the Missouri traversing the state from west to east, significantly influence local microclimates by moderating temperatures and elevating humidity levels. These wide waterways act as heat sinks in summer and sources of warmth in winter, while evaporation from their surfaces contributes to higher relative humidity and frequent fog, especially in low-lying valleys during cooler months. In the southeastern Bootheel region, flat alluvial lowlands near the Mississippi River—elevations as low as 230 feet—create warmer microclimates with greater winter precipitation compared to upland areas, fostering distinct agricultural conditions.[13][14][15] Urban development in major cities amplifies local warming through the urban heat island effect. In St. Louis and Kansas City, concentrations of impervious surfaces like asphalt and concrete absorb and reradiate heat, raising air temperatures up to 8–12°F above nearby rural areas, particularly at night and during heat waves. This effect intensifies humidity retention in built environments, heightening discomfort and energy demands for cooling.[16]Air Masses and Weather Patterns
Missouri's climate is shaped by the interaction of several major air masses originating from distinct regions. Cold, dry continental polar air masses frequently advance from Canada in the north, particularly during winter months, introducing sharp temperature drops and clear skies. In contrast, warm and moist maritime tropical air from the Gulf of Mexico dominates from the south, supplying humidity that fuels convective activity. Drier continental tropical air from the southwest occasionally influences the state, especially in transitional seasons, contributing to periods of elevated temperatures with reduced moisture.[1][13] The polar jet stream exerts significant control over these air mass movements, as its position and undulations dictate the influx of weather systems across the Midwest. When the jet stream dips southward, it facilitates outbreaks of cold Canadian air, leading to widespread chills and potential for wintry precipitation in winter. Conversely, northward shifts or amplified ridges in the jet stream can trap warm air, fostering heat domes that exacerbate summer high temperatures and drought conditions.[13][17] Prevailing westerly winds, part of the broader mid-latitude circulation, transport low-pressure systems eastward across Missouri, often drawing in moisture from upstream sources to generate precipitation events. These cyclonic systems, guided by the jet stream, account for much of the state's annual rainfall, with frontal passages enhancing lift and storm development. The El Niño-Southern Oscillation further modulates these patterns; during La Niña phases, a more southerly jet stream track increases the frequency of low-pressure systems, resulting in wetter winters across the region.[13][18][19] Frontal boundaries, where contrasting air masses collide, are a recurrent feature due to Missouri's central location, leading to dynamic weather transitions. Cold fronts, advancing from the northwest, frequently displace warmer Gulf air, creating steep temperature gradients and instability that spawn thunderstorms, particularly in spring and summer. These interactions highlight the state's position as a battleground between polar and tropical influences, producing variable daily weather.[1][20]Seasonal Descriptions
Spring
Spring in Missouri, spanning March through May, marks a transitional period from the lingering chill of winter to the warmth of summer, characterized by rapidly rising temperatures and increasing atmospheric instability. Average high temperatures begin around 55°F (13°C) in March, climbing steadily to approximately 75°F (24°C) by May, with nighttime lows following a similar upward trend but remaining cool enough to pose frost risks, particularly in northern and elevated regions until mid-April. This warming is accompanied by the blooming of foliage across the state's diverse landscapes, from the Ozark Plateau to the northern plains, as deciduous trees and wildflowers respond to the lengthening daylight hours, which extend from about 12 to 14 hours by late spring. Precipitation during this season is the highest of the year, totaling 12 to 14 inches (305 to 356 mm) across most of the state, primarily driven by frequent thunderstorms and frontal systems that deliver heavy rains. These events contribute to the period's highest potential for flooding, especially along rivers like the Missouri and Mississippi, where saturated soils from winter snowmelt exacerbate runoff. The clash of warm, moist air masses from the Gulf of Mexico with cooler continental air further intensifies storm activity, aligning with Missouri's classification as a humid continental climate that experiences pronounced seasonal shifts. Weather variability is notable, with occasional late-season snow or freezing rain possible in the northern half of the state as recently as early April, contrasting with early heat waves that can push southern temperatures into the 80s°F (27°C or higher) by May. Peak tornado activity occurs during April and May, with the state averaging about 35 tornadoes annually, many spawned by the powerful springtime storms that traverse the region. These phenomena underscore spring's dynamic nature, blending renewal in the landscape with the risks of severe weather.Summer
Summer in Missouri, spanning June through August, marks the hottest season, characterized by warm to hot temperatures and persistently high humidity. Average high temperatures range from 85°F to 90°F across the state, with July typically experiencing the peak warmth. Days exceeding 90°F occur frequently, averaging 40 to 50 such instances in the western and northern regions and 55 to 60 in the southeast. The combination of these temperatures and humidity from Gulf of Mexico air masses often results in heat index values surpassing 100°F, amplifying the perceived discomfort.[1][21][22] Precipitation during summer totals approximately 12 inches statewide, primarily delivered through frequent afternoon thunderstorms that provide relief from the heat. These storms contribute to a relatively low risk of prolonged droughts compared to other seasons, though short-term dry spells can occur amid occasional heat waves. The moisture supports abundant rainfall, fostering lush vegetation growth across Missouri's landscapes during this period of extended daylight, which lasts 14 to 15 hours near the summer solstice.[23][1][24] Weather patterns in summer are dominated by unstable conditions conducive to severe thunderstorms, which often produce hail and strong winds. High humidity levels, influenced by subtropical air in the southern portions of the state, exacerbate the muggy atmosphere typical of the season. Regional variations are notable, with urban areas like St. Louis and Kansas City experiencing elevated temperatures due to the urban heat island effect, while the higher elevations in the rural Ozarks offer slightly cooler conditions, with average highs a few degrees lower.[1][25][26]Autumn
Autumn in Missouri marks a transitional period from the warmth of summer to the chill of winter, spanning September through November. Average high temperatures gradually decline across the state, starting at approximately 80°F in September and dropping to around 57°F by November, while lows fall from the upper 50s°F to the mid-30s°F.[27] This cooling trend brings the first frosts typically by mid-October in northern and central regions, signaling the end of the growing season.[28] Precipitation during autumn totals about 9 to 10 inches statewide, making it a relatively drier season compared to spring and summer, with rainfall decreasing from around 4 inches in September to 3 inches each in October and November.[29] Occasional early snow flurries may occur in northern Missouri by late November, though accumulation is rare this early. The period coincides with peak fall foliage in mid- to late October, as deciduous trees like maples, oaks, and hickories display vibrant colors before leaf drop.[30] Weather patterns feature clearer skies and reduced storm activity as westerly influences fade, with daylight hours shortening to 10-12 hours by November. Warm spells known as Indian summers can intermittently return temperatures to the 70s°F, providing brief respites amid the cooling.[31] Regional variability is pronounced, with southern Missouri retaining warmth longer—highs often lingering in the 60s°F into November—while northern areas experience earlier chills, with highs dipping into the 50s°F sooner and more frequent frosts.[27] This north-south gradient reflects the state's continental climate traits in the north and more subtropical influences in the south.[1]Winter
Winter in Missouri, spanning December through February, marks the coldest season, characterized by frequent sub-freezing temperatures and variable cold snaps influenced by continental air masses. Average temperatures during this period typically range from 25°F to 35°F statewide, with January being the coldest month; for instance, minimum temperatures average 12°F in the northwest to 24°F in the southeast.[1] Nights often drop below freezing, occurring on about 110 days in the northern half of the state and around 70 days in the southern Bootheel region, while daytime highs occasionally reach the 40s°F but can plummet during Arctic outbreaks, leading to wind chills below 0°F.[1] In central locations like Springfield, monthly average temperatures are 37.4°F in December, 34.3°F in January, and 38.7°F in February.[23] Precipitation in winter totals approximately 8-10 inches of liquid equivalent across Missouri, often manifesting as snow, sleet, or freezing rain due to the state's position at the boundary between continental and subtropical influences. Snowfall averages 18-24 inches north of the Missouri River, tapering to 8-12 inches in the southern counties, with cities like Kirksville recording about 19 inches annually and Poplar Bluff around 5.4 inches.[1][32] Sleet and freezing rain events are common, occurring up to five times per winter, contributing to icy conditions that typically melt within one to two weeks.[1] Total winter precipitation in central areas, such as Springfield, amounts to about 7.55 inches, including both liquid and frozen forms.[23] Weather phenomena during Missouri's winter include short daylight hours of 9-10 hours around the solstice, frequent overcast skies from passing storm systems, and periodic thaws that bring milder air and partial snowmelt.[33] Near large reservoirs like the Lake of the Ozarks and Table Rock Lake, localized lake-effect snow can enhance snowfall in downwind areas during cold outbreaks over open water.[34] These thaws, often lasting several days, alternate with colder periods, creating variable conditions that rarely allow snow cover to persist beyond three weeks in most areas.[35] Regional variability is pronounced, with northern Missouri experiencing more persistent cold and heavier snow due to its continental climate influences, while southern areas benefit from subtropical traits that moderate extremes and increase liquid precipitation.[1] For example, northern sites like Trenton average 17.2 inches of snow, compared to 13.7 inches in southern Springfield.[32] This north-south gradient results in fewer severe cold spells in the south, where average January precipitation reaches up to 3.6 inches, versus 0.8 inches in the northwest.[1]Climate Statistics
Temperature and Precipitation Data
Missouri's climate normals for the period 1991-2020, as calculated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), provide a baseline for temperature and precipitation across the state. The statewide annual average temperature is 55.3°F, with the coldest month being January at an average of 30.9°F and the warmest July at 77.6°F. Annual precipitation totals 43.5 inches, distributed relatively evenly but peaking in late spring and early summer. Snowfall varies regionally but contributes to winter precipitation, with statewide estimates around 17 inches annually based on aggregated station data. These normals reflect the humid subtropical climate influenced by continental air masses, where summers are hot and humid and winters cold and occasionally snowy.[4][27] The following table summarizes the statewide monthly normals for temperature and precipitation:| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) | Average Temperature (°F) | Precipitation (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 40.2 | 21.5 | 30.9 | 2.1 |
| February | 45.6 | 25.3 | 35.5 | 2.3 |
| March | 56.2 | 34.0 | 45.1 | 3.3 |
| April | 67.0 | 43.8 | 55.4 | 4.6 |
| May | 75.6 | 53.7 | 64.7 | 5.4 |
| June | 84.1 | 63.0 | 73.6 | 4.6 |
| July | 88.2 | 66.9 | 77.6 | 4.3 |
| August | 87.0 | 64.8 | 75.9 | 3.8 |
| September | 79.8 | 56.6 | 68.2 | 3.9 |
| October | 68.5 | 44.8 | 56.7 | 3.4 |
| November | 55.0 | 34.4 | 44.7 | 3.3 |
| December | 44.0 | 25.6 | 34.8 | 2.5 |
| Annual | 66.0 | 44.5 | 55.3 | 43.5 |
| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) | Precipitation (in) | Snowfall (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 38 | 20 | 1.2 | 5.5 |
| February | 44 | 24 | 1.6 | 5.0 |
| March | 55 | 34 | 2.4 | 2.2 |
| April | 66 | 44 | 3.5 | 0.2 |
| May | 75 | 54 | 5.0 | 0.0 |
| June | 84 | 64 | 4.5 | 0.0 |
| July | 88 | 68 | 3.9 | 0.0 |
| August | 87 | 66 | 3.6 | 0.0 |
| September | 79 | 58 | 3.7 | 0.0 |
| October | 67 | 46 | 2.9 | 0.1 |
| November | 54 | 34 | 2.2 | 1.3 |
| December | 42 | 24 | 1.8 | 4.1 |
| Annual | 65 | 45 | 39.0 | 18.4 |
| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) | Precipitation (in) | Snowfall (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 40 | 24 | 2.1 | 5.5 |
| February | 46 | 28 | 2.3 | 4.3 |
| March | 57 | 37 | 3.0 | 2.0 |
| April | 68 | 47 | 3.9 | 0.2 |
| May | 77 | 58 | 4.3 | 0.0 |
| June | 86 | 67 | 3.8 | 0.0 |
| July | 90 | 71 | 3.7 | 0.0 |
| August | 88 | 69 | 3.0 | 0.0 |
| September | 81 | 61 | 3.1 | 0.0 |
| October | 69 | 49 | 2.7 | 0.1 |
| November | 56 | 37 | 3.1 | 1.3 |
| December | 45 | 29 | 2.4 | 4.3 |
| Annual | 67 | 48 | 40.4 | 17.7 |
| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) | Precipitation (in) | Snowfall (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 43 | 23 | 2.5 | 4.2 |
| February | 49 | 27 | 2.4 | 3.5 |
| March | 59 | 36 | 3.5 | 1.6 |
| April | 69 | 46 | 4.7 | 0.1 |
| May | 77 | 55 | 5.6 | 0.0 |
| June | 86 | 64 | 4.3 | 0.0 |
| July | 90 | 68 | 3.8 | 0.0 |
| August | 88 | 66 | 3.3 | 0.0 |
| September | 81 | 58 | 3.8 | 0.0 |
| October | 70 | 47 | 3.5 | 0.1 |
| November | 58 | 36 | 3.8 | 0.9 |
| December | 47 | 27 | 2.7 | 3.0 |
| Annual | 68 | 47 | 45.0 | 17.4 |
| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) | Precipitation (in) | Snowfall (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 39 | 22 | 1.9 | 6.5 |
| February | 45 | 26 | 2.1 | 5.0 |
| March | 56 | 35 | 2.9 | 2.2 |
| April | 66 | 45 | 4.0 | 0.2 |
| May | 75 | 55 | 5.0 | 0.0 |
| June | 83 | 64 | 4.4 | 0.0 |
| July | 87 | 68 | 4.0 | 0.0 |
| August | 86 | 66 | 3.5 | 0.0 |
| September | 79 | 58 | 3.6 | 0.0 |
| October | 68 | 46 | 3.0 | 0.2 |
| November | 55 | 35 | 2.8 | 1.8 |
| December | 43 | 25 | 2.0 | 4.9 |
| Annual | 66 | 46 | 41.4 | 20.8 |
Regional Variations
Missouri's climate exhibits notable regional variations influenced by its diverse topography and position along the transition between continental and subtropical air masses. The northern portion of the state, classified under the Köppen Dfa humid continental zone, experiences colder winters with average temperatures around 25°F and annual snowfall of 18 to 24 inches, reflecting greater exposure to cold Canadian air masses and increased continental variability in weather patterns. This region also faces a higher risk of tornadoes due to its alignment with the primary paths of springtime supercell thunderstorms originating from the Great Plains.[1][13] In contrast, southern Missouri, including the Bootheel area, falls within the Cfa humid subtropical zone, characterized by milder winters averaging 35°F and minimal snowfall of 8 to 12 inches, with persistent subtropical humidity contributing to higher summer rainfall totals. The region's longer growing season, extending 223 to 250 days, supports more subtropical vegetation and agriculture compared to the north.[1][13] The central region, encompassing the Ozark Plateau, features elevated terrain that moderates summer temperatures by 2 to 3°F cooler than surrounding plains areas, while enhancing orographic precipitation through uplift of moist air masses, resulting in annual totals of 45 to 50 inches versus about 40 inches on the northern plains. This leads to lusher forests and more frequent fog in valleys, distinguishing the Ozarks' microclimates from the flatter northern and southern lowlands.[1][23]| Region | Annual Avg. Temperature (°F) | Annual Precipitation (in) | Avg. Winter Temp. (°F) | Avg. Annual Snowfall (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Missouri | 52 | 40 | 25 | 20 |
| Central/Ozarks | 56 | 46 | 30 | 15 |
| Southern/Bootheel | 58 | 48 | 35 | 10 |