Residents of the Ozarks are finally experiencing relief from the bitter cold, as the region undergoes a notable warming trend this weekend. On February 22, 2025, temperatures soared to highs between the middle 30s and middle 40s, marking what felt like a heat wave compared to the recent arctic chills. According to KY3 meteorologists, this relief follows the passage of severe polar air, which had greatly chilled the area.
The setting high pressure southeast of the region is playing a pivotal role, ensuring quiet, clear skies filled with sunshine. The continued mild air is expected, with forecasts showing afternoon temperatures trending warmer with the onset of the upcoming week.
"Given where we have been through this past week, our highs today between the middle 30s and middle 40s felt like a heat wave after our Arctic blast cleared off to the east," remarked the meteorologists at KY3.
Saturday saw the predominantly sunny weather allowing for some melting of the remaining snowfall. But, as temperatures dipped back during the night, the risk of black ice arose, and patchy fog became possible Sunday morning. The meteorologists warned residents to remain vigilant about these conditions.
Looking forward to Sunday, residents can expect highs back around the lower to middle 50s, accompanied by mostly sunny skies throughout the day. Forecasters predict the pattern of tranquility will continue, giving individuals the chance to enjoy the mild conditions.
KY3 has noted, "The overall forecast trend will keep temperatures above average throughout the course of the week," with temperatures promised to peak significantly higher as days progress. Monday is set to usher back warmer temperatures with projected highs reaching the lower to middle 60s, coming off of Sunday’s pleasant weather.
The comforting trend will carry through midweek, as Tuesday brings more sunshine, allowing daytime highs to again reach the lower 60s. A slight downward dip is anticipated by Wednesday and Thursday with highs falling back to the middle to upper 50s, signaling some weather fluctuation.
Looking beyond the immediate warming trend, forecasters have also projected potential rain this coming week, especially midweek. Weather systems moving from the Pacific Northwest could lead to showers developing along and east of US Highway 65 by Wednesday afternoon.
Should conditions remain stable post-rain, clear skies should return by next weekend, with highs possibly returning again to the lower 60s. Forecasters are monitoring two upper-level waves, one positioned near El Paso and another near the Oregon coast, which could affect local patterns.
"Let’s just enjoy the break from the active weather and warmer numbers going to next week!" exclaimed the KY3 weather staff, underscoring the relief brought by the warming trend.
The first week of March may present more varied weather with potential scattered rain showers returning as we turn colder after midweek, but for now, residents are encouraged to relish the pleasant conditions and added warmth.