A cold Easter on the way

For the second consecutive day Friday, much of Southeast Missouri endured temperatures near freezing. Flurries were spotted in Cape Girardeau in the afternoon, and temperatures dipped down to 33 degrees during the day.

Overnight lows were predicted to plummet into the low 20s.

Wind speeds of up to 33 mph, though, meant the temperature actually felt 10 degrees cooler or more.

The average low temperature for this time of year is 43 degrees, and the record low is 26 degrees.

KFVS12 senior meteorologist Bob Reeves said temperatures will stay frosty through the weekend. He said lows will drop into the mid-20s every day until Tuesday, when weather will warm back up to the low 60s.

"I've resisted putting on winter clothing, but I might have to get my jacket back out this weekend," joked Reeves.

Reeves said the term for the type of cold-snap that comes on after spring seemed to have sprung is "dogwood winter." It's a southern term referring to cold weather that begins after trees have bloomed.

Though the cold patch has been unseasonable, it is not yet record-breaking. Reeves said Cape Girardeau has had freezing temperatures as late as May 17, which happened in 1968.

Some record lows, however, could be in jeopardy. Reeves said the record low temperatures for April 7 and April 8 are 25 degrees and 27 degrees, respectively. Both of those records could be broken.

"We're going to be close to those if we clear out, that is if it's not cloudy overnight," said Reeves. He said a hard freeze is likely on Saturday.

Tuesday's warm-up will come with a chance for rain. Rains are expected Tuesday and Wednesday.

tgreaney@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 245