In January 2025, the United States experienced a series of severe cold weather events that struck multiple locations, including Springfield, MO. These events were marked by severe temperatures, significant snowfall, and odd weather patterns that disrupted daily life and caused issues throughout the country. 

A strong polar vortex swept into the northeastern United States at the start of the month, bringing extremely frigid temperatures to places like New York City. Temperatures were considerably lower than normal for this time of year, leaving residents in extremely cold conditions. Much of the region was under a Cold Weather Advisory, which advised people to take precautions against the extreme cold. 

According to Chris Oberholtz from FOX Weather, a fast-moving storm system, known as a “clipper,” flew into the Northeast later in the month, bringing heavy snow and hazardous winds. Lake-effect snow caused buildup of more than a foot in some regions of states ranging from Michigan to Maine. Watertown, New York, recorded nine inches of snow, with another five to ten inches still expected. Wind gusts reached 45 mph, resulting in hazardous travel conditions and Winter Storm Warnings in various areas.  

The cold blast stretched into the Deep South; an area not familiar with such harsh winter weather. Temperatures in South Carolina plummeted to an unusually low 25°F (-3°C), followed by heavy snowfall. This unusual cold blast resulted in interesting events, such as an alligator being found frozen in a lake on Cat Island, stated by Elizabeta Ranxburgaj, a U.S. Sun Reporter. Experts stated that the reptile was in a condition called brumation, which is a method of survival in which metabolism slows, and the animal becomes lethargic. The harsh weather in the south resulted in at least ten fatalities due to exposure, traffic accidents, and other related incidents. 

In Florida, the unexpected cold had an ecological impact. An arctic blast swept as far south as St. Augustine, causing 17 green sea turtles become cold-stunned, a condition in which reptiles become lethargic as temperatures drop suddenly. Cody Jackson and Freida Frisaro from AP News stated that the turtles were rescued and relocated to the Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach for rehabilitation. Veterinarians treated the turtles with medication and intravenous feeding, with plans to release them back into the water after they recovered. 

Missouri experienced severe cold weather, including the effects of Winter Storm Blair, which delivered heavy snowfall alongside frigid temperatures to the region. The storm caused widespread power outages and hazardous travel conditions across the state. In Kansas City, around 10 inches of snow were recorded, adding to the challenges faced by its residents. The continuous arctic air masses caused extended periods of subfreezing temperatures, disrupting daily life and infrastructure across Missouri.  

January in Springfield, MO was marked by significant temperature shifts and freezing temperatures. The month began with relatively moderate weather, with temperatures around 32°F (0°C) on January 1. However, a cold front quickly swept in, causing temperatures to plunge. On January 6, the city saw lows of roughly 15°F (-9.4°C), and temperatures dropped further on January 7.  

The most severe cold struck mid-month. On January 19-20, Springfield recorded temperatures as low as 12°F (-11.1°C), with highs barely reaching 10°F (-12.5°C). These freezing temperatures were accompanied with bright skies, which, although offering sunshine, provided little reprieve from the stinging cold.  

Temperatures began to moderate at the end of January. By January 25, high temperatures had risen to around 40°F (4.7°C), providing a temporary relief from the bitter cold earlier that month. However, the month ended with temperatures dropping again, with lows around 30°F (-1.1°C) on January 31.  

As February begins, Springfield residents should remain watchful and prepared for more winter weather. While specific forecasts differ, historical patterns suggest that February may bring both chilly temperatures and winter precipitation to the region. It is recommended that you watch local weather updates on a frequent basis and be prepared for potential snowfall or ice events.