A significant warm spell is forecasted for Christmas Day, with the potential for record-breaking high temperatures across the central United States. According to NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center (CPC), numerous cities, including St. Louis, Kansas City, and Des Moines, are likely to see temperatures exceed historical highs established in the late 1800s.
The CPC predicts that from December 24 to 28, nearly the entire country will experience above-average temperatures, with the exception of the upper Northeast and northern Pacific Coast. Highs in the Southern Plains may reach the low 80s Fahrenheit, while regions from the Intermountain West to the Midwest could see temperatures in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit.
This warm trend may continue beyond the holiday season, with forecasts indicating elevated temperatures persisting into the new year. Following a cold start to December with Arctic blasts and snowfall, the expected warmth signals a temporary break from winter conditions.