St. Louis is waking up muggy and unsettled on Saturday, May 16, with mostly cloudy skies and temperatures already in the upper 60s to low 70s as showers move into the metro. A band of showers and thunderstorms is expected to roll through right as many people hit the road, with the highest risk between about 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. Brief heavy rain, lightning and localized gusty winds could slow things down, so plan for wet roads and some short delays.
Morning Commute: Thunderstorms In The Mix
Showers and thunderstorms are likely through mid-morning Saturday, May 16, with forecasters putting the overall precipitation chance around 60%. The strongest storms could pack hail up to one inch in diameter and damaging wind gusts strong enough to knock down small limbs or briefly cut visibility. For the latest thinking on storm strength and timing, check updates from the National Weather Service St. Louis.
Afternoon And Sunday: Turning Warm, Windy And Summerlike
Storm coverage should taper off this afternoon, giving way to mostly cloudy to partly sunny skies and a high near 84°F on Saturday, May 16. By Saturday night, a strengthening southerly flow sets the stage for a real warmup. On Sunday, May 17, temperatures are expected to jump into the upper 80s to around 91°F, with south winds of 8 to 16 mph and gusts that could reach around 28 mph in a few spots. Outdoor plans will feel more like mid-summer, so have water handy and aim for shade if you are out during the hottest part of the day.
Early Next Week: Cold Front Brings A Bigger Storm Setup
Thunderstorm chances climb again Monday, May 18 and especially Tuesday, May 19 as a slow-moving cold front inches toward the region. Forecasters are flagging a more widespread severe weather threat with this boundary, although the exact timing and intensity are still uncertain. Expect forecast tweaks and the potential for watches Monday night into Tuesday as the setup becomes clearer. If you plan to be outside early next week, keep an eye on forecasts from the National Weather Service St. Louis.
What To Do
Give yourself extra time on the roads this morning and bring an umbrella or lightweight rain jacket in case one of the heavier showers finds you. Before Sunday, secure loose outdoor items that could be tossed around by gusty south winds, and try to schedule outdoor events for the early morning or later in the evening when it is not quite as hot. If watches or warnings are issued locally, head indoors and follow safety instructions until storms pass and conditions improve.
