If you’re planning for Memorial Day in Missouri, you’ll probably end up watching the weather as closely as the calendar. Warm afternoons, mild mornings, and a pretty good chance for rain all play into how the long weekend shapes up. On average, expect daytime highs in the upper 70s to low 80s, with about a 1-in-3 shot at measurable rainfall.
One year, you might get perfect sunshine for a barbecue, and the next, a cool, gray drizzle could show up instead. Some years have dumped heavy rain, while others stayed bone dry. That unpredictability makes it worth knowing what usually happens across the state.
Long-term records and regional differences help you get a better sense of what Memorial Day in Missouri tends to feel like. That way, you can plan whether you’re headed to the lake, hosting a cookout, or just traveling to a local event.
Typical Memorial Day Weather in Missouri
Most years, you’ll find warm afternoons, mild mornings, and a fair shot at rain on Memorial Day in Missouri. Conditions do change from city to city, but long-term records spell out the temperature ranges, rain odds, and how much sunshine you might get.
Average High and Low Temperatures
By late May, Missouri usually settles into a summer-like groove. Afternoon highs often land in the upper 70s to low 80s°F, with averages around 79–80°F in spots like St. Louis, Columbia, and Quincy.
Mornings feel cooler but still pretty comfortable. You’ll see readings in the upper 50s to low 60s°F, with long-term averages near 59–61°F. That’s decent weather for being outside without sweating or shivering.
Now and then, the temperatures get extreme. St. Louis once hit 97°F (1934), and Quincy soared to 103°F (1934). On the flip side, Columbia dipped to 40°F (1947) one morning. These records don’t happen often, but they’re a reminder to keep an eye on the forecast if you’re planning something outdoors.
Chance of Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
Rain shows up as a regular player on Memorial Day in Missouri. Long-term data says measurable rainfall happens about 38–40% of the time, depending on where you are. So, you’ve got nearly a 4-in-10 chance of seeing at least some rain during the holiday.
Most years, it’s just light showers, with average daily totals around 0.12–0.17 inches. But sometimes, heavy rain hits. St. Louis picked up more than 2 inches in both 2008 and 2009, and Columbia saw over 2 inches in 1967 and 1996.
If you’re hosting something outside, definitely keep an eye on the forecast. Late spring storms can be quick and intense, especially when warm, humid air fuels thunderstorms. Flooding isn’t common on just this one day, but soggy ground can still mess with travel and events.
Cloud Cover and Sunshine Levels
The sky on Memorial Day in Missouri can swing from mostly sunny to totally overcast, depending on storm activity. On dry years, you’ll often get long stretches of sunshine, especially after lunch.
Clouds really start to roll in when showers or storms are nearby. Even if rain chances are under 50%, you might still deal with partly cloudy skies much of the day. So, sunshine is pretty common, but not a sure thing.
Humidity adds another layer. Warm air holds more moisture, so even sunny days can feel sticky. If you’re outside, expect mild to warm conditions, with occasional cloud breaks that give you a little relief from the sun. That mix of clouds and sun is pretty standard for late May here.
Regional Weather Variations Across Missouri
Memorial Day weather in Missouri shifts around depending on where you are. Rain chances, temperature swings, and record extremes vary between the northern, central, and southern regions, so each area has its own quirks to plan for.
St. Louis Area Conditions
St. Louis usually gets warm afternoons in late May, with average highs near 80°F and lows around 61°F. Record highs have hit the upper 90s, and the coolest years have dropped into the 40s.
Rain is a big factor for holiday plans. There’s about a 39% chance of measurable rain on Memorial Day. Most of the time, it’s light showers, but the city has had heavy downpours over 1 inch in a few years, including more than 2 inches in 2008 and 2009.
Humidity can make the air feel warmer than the numbers say. If you’re heading to a parade, barbecue, or cemetery service, keep in mind that afternoon storms sometimes roll in, especially later in the day.
Columbia and Central Missouri Trends
Columbia and the central part of the state tend to run a bit cooler than St. Louis. Typical highs reach the upper 70s to near 80°F, with lows in the upper 50s. Records have bounced from chilly mornings in the low 40s to highs above 100°F in wild years.
Rain is a little more likely here, with about a 40% chance of measurable precipitation on Memorial Day. Most years bring just light to moderate showers, but a few have dumped over 2 inches, like 1941, 1967, and 1996.
Being in the middle of the state means you get quick weather changes. Storms rolling in from the Plains can bring sudden rain, but some years, calm and dry conditions let you enjoy outdoor plans without a hitch.
Springfield and Southern Missouri Overview
Springfield and the Ozarks region usually run warmer and more humid than the north. Average Memorial Day highs get close to 80°F, with lows in the upper 50s. The central Ozarks might be a touch cooler, but not by much.
Rain chances are moderate. Heavy totals don’t happen as often as in Columbia or St. Louis, but afternoon showers or thunderstorms can still pop up. Severe weather isn’t a big threat, but brief downpours can happen.
With the southern setting, you’ll usually get more stable warm weather. If you’re planning to hike, camp, or visit lakes in the Ozarks, expect warm afternoons, but don’t forget to prep for a passing shower.
Historical Weather Records for Memorial Day
If you dig into Memorial Day weather history in Missouri, you’ll find big swings in temperatures, rainfall, and overall vibe. Records show both extreme heat and chilly mornings, plus years with heavy downpours and others with barely a drop.
Record Highs and Lows
Memorial Day temperatures have run the gamut from cold mornings to blazing afternoons. In St. Louis, the hottest Memorial Day hit 97°F in 1934, while Columbia reached 103°F that same year. Quincy also broke 100°F in 1934, making it a scorcher all around.
On the cold side, lows have dropped into the 40s in several places. Columbia hit 40°F in 1947, and St. Louis went down to 42°F in 1889. These chilly starts aren’t common, but they do happen.
Most years, highs hover near 79–80°F, and lows stay close to 59–61°F. So, while the records stand out, most Memorial Days bring mild to warm weather that’s decent for outdoor stuff.
Notable Rainfall Events
Rain on Memorial Day isn’t rare in Missouri. St. Louis sees about a 39% chance of measurable rain, Columbia is closer to 40%, and Quincy comes in at 38%.
Some years have really let loose. St. Louis got 2.19 inches in 2008 and 2.54 inches in 1967—way above normal. Columbia also saw more than 2 inches in 1941, 1967, and 1996. Quincy’s wettest Memorial Day was 2013 with over 2 inches.
Many years, though, bring little or no rain. Most places average under 0.20 inches on the holiday. That means you should be ready for a quick shower, but long, soaking rain isn’t the norm.
Year-to-Year Weather Fluctuations
Memorial Day weather in Missouri just doesn’t stick to a script. Some years bring heat waves, while others feel closer to early spring. For example, 1934 brought record highs to several cities, but 1992 in Quincy only got into the 40s and 50s during the day.
Rainfall jumps around too. You might get a dry, sunny holiday one year, and then thunderstorms the next. The odds of measurable rain stay around one in three, but those big rain events don’t happen that often.
You can’t really count on past weather alone when planning for the holiday. It’s smarter to use the records as a rough guide and be ready for anything from hot and dry to cool and wet.
Weather Patterns Leading Up to Memorial Day
In Missouri, the weeks before Memorial Day usually bring shifting temps and plenty of rain. You’ll see a mix of warm spring days and unsettled weather as the state edges toward summer.
Spring Temperature Trends
By late May, Missouri usually gets daytime highs in the low to mid-70s °F, with nighttime lows in the 50s. Some years, warmer air pushes highs into the 80s, while a cold front can still drop things into the 60s.
Swings within a single week are common. A warm front might bump temps up, and then a cold front can knock them down by 10–15 degrees. That’s just late spring in the Midwest.
Average temperatures in late May (Missouri):
- High: 72–78°F
- Low: 50–56°F
Because Memorial Day lands right before meteorological summer, you could get anything from a springtime chill to early summer warmth. It’s smart to plan for layers if you’re headed outside.
May Rainfall Statistics
May ranks as one of the rainiest months in Missouri. On average, you’ll see about 4 to 5 inches of rain for the month, with many spots picking up measurable precipitation on 10 or more days.
Thunderstorms pop up often, especially in the week leading up to Memorial Day. These storms can bring heavy downpours, lightning, and the occasional gusty wind. Severe weather, like hail or tornadoes, is less common but not impossible.
Typical May rainfall patterns:
- Monthly average: 4–5 inches
- Rain days: 10–12 per month
- Highest risk: Late afternoon and evening storms
With all this unsettled weather, Memorial Day gatherings usually face at least a 30–40% chance of rain. It pays to check the forecast and have a backup plan for anything outside.
Planning Outdoor Activities for Memorial Day Weekend
Memorial Day weather in Missouri usually brings mild to warm temps, but there’s always a chance for rain or storms. If you plan your schedule with the local climate in mind, you’ll have a better shot at enjoying outdoor gatherings, ceremonies, and recreation.
Best Times of Day for Outdoor Events
Late morning to early afternoon often gives you the most reliable weather for outdoor fun. Temperatures usually climb into the 70s or 80s by midday, which feels just right for picnics, barbecues, or even a quick hike. Early mornings are cooler, often in the 50s or 60s, so they’re nice for runs or fishing.
Evenings can be pleasant, but they also bring a higher chance of pop-up thunderstorms, especially in late spring. If you’re planning a Memorial Day cookout, try to start earlier so you can finish before late-day showers or sticky humidity roll in.
If you’re heading to a ceremony or parade, bring water and light clothing for midday heat. A little shade or a portable umbrella can help if the sun’s blazing.
Quick Guide to Timing:
- Morning (6–10 AM): Cool, best for exercise.
- Midday (11 AM–2 PM): Warm, good for meals and gatherings.
- Evening (4–8 PM): Comfortable but higher storm risk.
Weather-Related Safety Tips
Missouri’s Memorial Day weekend usually brings scattered thunderstorms. Honestly, it’s smart to check forecasts every day and keep a backup plan handy if you’re planning something outside.
If you hear thunder, don’t wait—move everyone indoors. Lightning is a serious risk, and you really can’t ignore it.
Bring supplies that’ll protect you from both sun and rain. Sunscreen, hats, and water are must-haves for hot afternoons.
A lightweight poncho or a tent cover can save the day if rain suddenly shows up.
If you’re spending time near lakes or rivers, keep in mind that heavy rain upstream can make water levels rise fast. Stay away from low-lying spots that could flood before you even realize it.
Holiday traffic gets rough, and storms can slow you down even more. When you hit the road, expect delays from wet pavement.
Toss an emergency kit in your car—snacks, water, and a phone charger can make a big difference if you get stuck somewhere.
Key Reminders:
- Check radar before leaving home
- Seek shelter at the first sign of lightning
- Carry sun protection and rain gear
- Avoid flooded roads or trails
How Missouri’s Climate Affects Memorial Day Weather
Missouri sits right in the middle of the country, so you get quick shifts in temperature and rainfall around Memorial Day. Humid air from the Gulf of Mexico mixes with cooler air from the north, and that combo really shapes the weather for holiday events.
Role of Humidity and Air Masses
By late May, warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico pushes into Missouri. This bumps up humidity levels and boosts the chance of afternoon showers or thunderstorms.
On Memorial Day, you might notice it feels muggy even if the sky looks pretty clear.
Cooler, drier air from Canada can still swing down into the state. When those two air masses meet, they often spark unsettled weather.
That’s why some Memorial Days have seen more than an inch of rain—sometimes it just happens.
Humidity changes how temperatures feel, too. An 80°F afternoon in St. Louis or Columbia might feel a lot hotter when the air is thick with moisture.
Outdoor ceremonies, parades, or barbecues get way less comfortable, even if the thermometer doesn’t show crazy heat.
Influence of Regional Geography
Missouri’s geography really opens it up to all sorts of weather systems. Since there aren’t any mountains around to block the air, cold fronts from the north and warm fronts from the south just sweep right through. That’s why Memorial Day weather can flip so quickly here.
The north-south shape of the state makes a difference too. If you’re up in northern cities like Quincy, you’ll probably notice cooler temps. Head down to the Bootheel, and it’s a lot warmer and stickier. So, depending on your travel plans, your Memorial Day could feel totally different.
River valleys, especially those close to the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, trap moisture and bump up the humidity. Folks in these spots might wake up to thick fog or get hit with stronger afternoon storms compared to people on higher ground. If you’re thinking about outdoor plans near the rivers, it’s worth keeping this in mind.