Spring in Missouri is a period of natural transformation, anticipated for its beauty and return of outdoor activity. This season shifts from winter’s dormant chill to a vibrant resurgence of life. Warming temperatures and increased daylight hours refresh the environment, inviting residents and visitors to experience the state’s natural wonders.
The Calendar Defined
Astronomically, spring begins with the vernal equinox and concludes with the summer solstice. In 2025, the vernal equinox occurs on Thursday, March 20, at 4:01 AM Central Daylight Time (CDT). This moment marks when the sun crosses the celestial equator, leading to nearly equal day and night across the globe. The season then transitions into summer with the summer solstice, which in 2025 falls on Friday, June 20, at 9:42 PM CDT. This date signifies the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.
The Reality of Missouri Spring
Missouri’s spring weather often deviates from astronomical dates, characterized by unpredictability. The state’s continental climate results in frequent, rapid temperature fluctuations, with 20 to 40-degree Fahrenheit changes within 24 hours being common. Average spring temperatures range from 50 to 54 degrees Fahrenheit, warming to around 70 degrees Fahrenheit by May.
Spring is also the wettest time of the year in Missouri. The chance of wet days significantly increases throughout the season. Thunderstorms are frequent from April through July, and hail can occur, with May having the highest number of days with hail. Heavy rains can lead to flash flooding. While rare, snow has been observed as late as May.
Beyond weather, spring in Missouri is marked by distinct biological events. Native trees such as serviceberry, wild plum, hawthorn, and the state tree, the flowering dogwood, produce masses of blooms. The vibrant pink of redbud trees also signals the season’s arrival. These blooms typically begin in southern Missouri in March and progress northward, often peaking in the last two weeks of April.
The season also triggers a surge in wildlife activity. Animals like groundhogs, chipmunks, bats, frogs, and turtles emerge from winter dormancy. Migratory birds return to the region, building nests and contributing to the ecosystem’s revitalization. Young wildlife, including fawns and various bird species, become visible, so observe them from a distance without interference.