St. Louis woke up Sunday, April 19, to mostly clear skies, a chilly 43°F, and a light west breeze. The city will warm up nicely under plenty of sunshine this afternoon, with highs near 68°F and a few breezy spots feeling a bit gusty late in the day. Overnight lows dip back to around 42°F, so the pattern this week looks like cool starts that quickly flip to much warmer afternoons. A light jacket will still come in handy early, but you may be reaching for sunscreen by midweek as temperatures climb.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
Winds this afternoon will run mainly out of the west at 5 to 15 mph, with gusts up to about 28 mph, enough to rattle patio umbrellas and send light yard debris down the block. If you are planning to be out and about, secure or bring in anything that might blow around. For the full forecast and detailed discussion, see the National Weather Service St. Louis.
Cool Mornings, Patchy Frost Possible
Some rural and low-lying spots north of the city could slip into the mid 30s late tonight and again Monday morning, which brings a small chance of patchy frost on exposed, elevated plants. Within the city, temperatures should hold in the low 40s, followed by a quick rebound into the upper 60s during the day. If you have potted or tender plants, it is not a bad idea to cover them Monday morning as a precaution.
Midweek Warm Spell Then Late-Week Storm Risk
After Monday, temperatures climb in a hurry. Highs should reach the upper 60s Monday, April 20, then jump into the 70s Tuesday, April 21, and Wednesday, April 22, with many spots nearing 80°F on Thursday, April 23. That warm, moist air will help set the stage for increasing chances of showers and thunderstorms late Thursday into Friday, with the highest odds and most widespread rainfall expected overnight Thursday into Friday. Forecasters are calling for roughly a 50% chance of storms Thursday night and about a 70% chance Friday, which means late-week outdoor plans may take a hit. Check the National Weather Service St. Louis for updates and any watches or warnings.
What To Plan For
Soak up the sunshine while you can. Afternoons through Wednesday should be pleasant and well suited for yard work or socially distanced time outside. As Thursday evening approaches, it is smart to move sensitive outdoor events indoors or have a solid rain plan, and to secure loose items against gusty winds. If you have travel or outdoor events lined up for late Thursday into Friday, keep an eye on forecast updates.
