Missouri welcomes Monday with rattling windows and cracking tree branches as strong northwest winds sweep across the St. Louis area. Flags strain, loose debris sweeps across parking lots, and the cold air becomes sharper with each gust.
A wind advisory remains in force for eastern Missouri and southwest Illinois until early Monday morning. Wind gusts have reached 40 to 45 mph, making driving hazardous, particularly for high-profile automobiles. Temperatures stay around 21 degrees, while wind chills drop into the single digits, providing an added layer of biting.
According to the National Weather Service in St. Louis, the highest winds will linger during the early commute before gradually reducing later this morning. Unsecured holiday decorations, trash cans, and outdoor furniture may still get blown around. Where tree limbs come into contact with electricity lines, there may still be occasional power outages.
Drivers on I-64, I-70, and I-55 should prepare for abrupt crosswinds, particularly on bridges and open sections. Trucks, vans, and vehicles carrying trailers may experience less control. Allow additional time and maintain both hands on the wheel.
Conditions improve this afternoon as winds calm and sky brighten. Monday sees highs in the upper 20s before a chilly night sets in. Tuesday offers calmer weather and sunshine, with highs in the upper 30s.
Looking forward, temperatures are expected to rise by midweek. Wednesday reaches the 40s, but New Year’s Day 2026 appears dry and suitable for holiday activities and travel. Even then, consecutive cold nights mean that untreated roadways can refreeze.
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