by St. Louis, Missouri — After several days of unseasonably warm temperatures, the St. Louis region is preparing for a dramatic weather shift this weekend as a strong cold front moves through late Saturday into Sunday. The change will bring gusty winds and a rapid drop in temperatures, ending the mild holiday stretch and ushering in a much colder start to next week.
Forecasters say the contrast will be noticeable, especially for residents with outdoor plans or holiday travel scheduled around the weekend.
Mild Pattern Holds Through Saturday
According to the National Weather Service in St. Louis, temperatures will remain well above seasonal averages through Saturday despite some lingering cloud cover and a weaker frontal boundary midweek.
Daytime highs are expected to reach the lower to mid-70s from Wednesday through Saturday, values more typical of early fall than late December. Overnight lows will stay relatively mild as well, generally ranging from the 40s to low 50s, limiting any cold-weather concerns through the end of the workweek.
Cloud cover may fluctuate at times, but no significant precipitation is expected. For many residents, the extended warmth has allowed for easy travel, outdoor errands, and holiday gatherings without winter weather disruptions.
Strong Cold Front Arrives Late Weekend
The pattern changes quickly late Saturday into Sunday as a stronger cold front sweeps through eastern Missouri and western Illinois.
Meteorologists say this system will deliver a sharp temperature drop along with increasing winds, signaling a clear transition back to winter conditions. The front is expected to pass overnight, meaning residents may wake up Sunday to much colder air than the day before.
By Sunday afternoon, high temperatures are forecast to struggle into the 40s, a drop of more than 25 degrees compared to Saturday’s warmth.
Cold Deepens Sunday Night Into Monday
Behind the front, colder air continues to spill into the region. Forecast models show temperatures falling further Sunday night, with lows dipping into the 30s, followed by an even colder Monday.
Read Also: Post-Christmas Weather Alert: More Snow and Ice Headed for the Northeast
On Monday, daytime highs are expected to range from the mid-20s to low 30s, while overnight lows could fall into the teens in some areas. This marks the coldest stretch St. Louis has seen in several weeks.
The National Weather Service notes that temperatures early next week will run below average, a notable reversal from the persistent warmth experienced through much of December.
Gusty Winds Add Extra Chill
In addition to falling temperatures, gusty winds will follow the cold front, making conditions feel even colder than the thermometer suggests.
Wind speeds are expected to increase late Sunday and remain noticeable into Monday. The combination of wind and cold air will create brisk, winterlike conditions, particularly during the morning and evening hours.
Residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor items ahead of the front, as lightweight decorations, trash bins, and holiday décor could be affected by stronger gusts.
Travel and Outdoor Impacts
The timing of the cold front is especially important for holiday travelers and weekend plans. While Saturday remains favorable for travel, conditions will change rapidly late in the weekend.
Drivers heading out Sunday or Monday should be prepared for colder temperatures and wind-chill effects, particularly during early morning hours. While no snow or ice is currently forecast with this system, the abrupt temperature change could still catch people off guard.
Anyone attending outdoor events or returning from holiday gatherings should plan for heavier winter clothing by Sunday night and early next week.
Preparing for the Temperature Swing
Forecasters recommend residents take a few simple steps ahead of the cold front:
- Dress in layers if heading out late Sunday or Monday
- Protect pets and sensitive plants from colder overnight temperatures
- Check heating systems to ensure they are working properly
- Monitor forecast updates in case timing or intensity shifts
While the warm stretch has been a welcome break from winter, the upcoming cold snap serves as a reminder that December is far from over.
What Comes Next
After the cold front settles in, temperatures are expected to remain below average into early next week, with gradual moderation possible later in the week. For now, forecasters say the biggest story is the speed and strength of the temperature change, rather than any single weather hazard.
Residents across the St. Louis area are advised to enjoy the remaining warmth through Saturday — and be ready for winter’s return shortly after.
How are you preparing for the sudden cooldown in St. Louis? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
