As spring unfolds across the Tri-States, it’s common to experience chilly mornings. However, historical weather patterns indicate that frosty mornings, with temperatures dipping below freezing, become increasingly rare as April progresses.
This article explores the last expected frosty days in cities like Kirkville, Mo. and Ottumwa, Iowa, providing insight into typical temperature trends and the unusual nature of these cold spells for most of April.
Historical Patterns of Frosty Mornings
In both Kirkville, Missouri, and Ottumwa, Iowa, residents are used to seeing a drop in temperatures during early spring, but these chilly mornings don’t typically last long into April.
According to historical weather data, the dates marking the end of frosty conditions are fairly consistent, with some variability each year.
Kirkville, Missouri: The Last Frosty Mornings
In Kirkville, historical data suggests that the last frost of the season, defined by overnight temperatures of 32°F or lower, usually occurs around April 17th.
However, temperatures dropping as low as 28°F can still occur a few days earlier, with the last date for this lower threshold generally occurring on April 7th.
Last Frosty Mornings in Kirkville, Missouri
| Temperature Threshold | Last Expected Date |
|---|---|
| 32°F | April 17th |
| 28°F | April 7th |
These dates suggest that by mid-April, frosty mornings in Kirkville should be far less common, giving way to warmer temperatures more characteristic of spring.
Ottumwa, Iowa: Similar Trends
Similarly, Ottumwa sees its last 32°F night by April 16th, with temperatures dipping to 28°F typically coming to an end by April 7th.
This consistency in temperature trends reflects the region’s general move into milder spring weather as the month progresses.
Last Frosty Mornings in Ottumwa, Iowa
| Temperature Threshold | Last Expected Date |
|---|---|
| 32°F | April 16th |
| 28°F | April 7th |
While the temperatures remain chilly in early spring, the occurrence of frosty mornings becomes less likely as we approach the second half of the month, offering a welcome change for the Tri-States.
What Affects Frosty Mornings in April?
While it’s easy to focus on the dates, several factors contribute to the likelihood of seeing frosty mornings in the Tri-States.
- Geography: Areas with higher elevation like Kirkville may experience frost later in the season compared to areas at lower elevations.
- Weather Systems: Cold fronts moving through the region can lead to unseasonably low temperatures in early spring.
- Climate Patterns: As the climate continues to shift, the timing of the last frost could change slightly, but the historical trends provide a useful guide for predicting frosty conditions.
Rising Temperatures: What to Expect After the Frost
Once April’s last frost has passed, temperatures typically rise, leading to more consistent spring weather.
This means residents in the Tri-States can expect more pleasant mornings and warmer days as the month goes on, signaling the transition to spring’s more stable weather conditions.
The historical weather patterns in the Tri-States show that frosty mornings are a seasonal challenge but typically don’t last beyond early April.
While both Kirkville, Missouri, and Ottumwa, Iowa, can expect their last cold mornings by the 7th to 17th of April, these chilly days will soon give way to warmer temperatures, providing relief from the lingering winter cold.
By understanding these patterns, residents can better prepare for the transition into a more predictable and comfortable spring season.