St. Louis is starting Sunday, July 5, 2026, on a quiet note, with clear skies and temperatures parked near 70°F. By this afternoon, though, things heat up: highs climb into the upper 80s, humidity sticks around, and a passing front brings a solid shot at showers and thunderstorms after about 2 p.m. If you have outdoor plans, build in the chance for a quick dousing and some rumbling skies.
Afternoon Storm Risk
According to the National Weather Service, a weak front teamed up with an upper-level disturbance will help spark showers and thunderstorms across parts of the region this afternoon. The best odds are along and south of the metro area, with around a 50% chance of rain during peak heating.
Any storms that pop up could feature gusty winds, frequent lightning and localized heavy rain. That downpour potential may lead to brief flooding or ponding on roads, so it is worth keeping an eye on radar if you are heading out for errands, ballgames or backyard grilling later in the day.
Timing And What To Expect
Storms are most likely from mid-to-late afternoon into early evening, roughly between 3 and 7 p.m., though a few isolated showers could develop earlier. Once storms move through, temperatures slip back into the upper 60s to around 70°F overnight.
A lingering chance of showers hangs on Sunday night before skies turn partly cloudy Monday morning. If you have evening plans or a commute during the prime storm window, pack rain gear, allow some extra travel time and be ready for brief heavy downpours that can slow traffic and cut visibility.
Week Ahead
After Monday, July 6, 2026, the pattern calms down briefly, with highs in the mid-to-upper 80s and quieter weather. Sunshine makes a more reliable appearance Tuesday and Wednesday, with highs around 89 to 92°F.
By Thursday, July 9, 2026, the heat ticks up again, with highs likely jumping into the mid-90s. Rain chances return late Thursday into Friday, as additional disturbances move through and bring showers and thunderstorms back into the picture Thursday night and Friday.
Stay Cool And Where To Go
If you need a cool place to ride out the hot afternoons, you can call United Way at 2-1-1 or check the City of St. Louis for cooling center locations and hours.
Keep weather alerts turned on, watch local radar for developing storms this afternoon and take it slow on the roads if you hit one of those brief, heavy bursts of rain that can quickly cut visibility.
