Asbury is a small city located in Jasper County, Missouri, United States. Positioned in the southwestern part of the state, Asbury lies approximately 12 miles north of Joplin and about 150 miles south of Kansas City. The city covers an area of around 0.3 square miles and has a population of approximately 200 residents, according to the latest census data. Asbury is known for its quiet, rural charm and tight-knit community.
Geographically, Asbury is situated in the Ozark Plateau region, characterized by its rolling hills, fertile soil, and numerous streams and rivers. The surrounding area is largely agricultural, with many farms and ranches contributing to the local economy. The city’s landscape offers scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and hunting.
While Asbury does not host large corporations or major universities, it is close to several notable landmarks and institutions. Nearby Joplin is home to Missouri Southern State University, which offers a variety of academic programs and cultural events. Additionally, the George Washington Carver National Monument, located about 20 miles southeast of Asbury, is a significant historical site dedicated to the famous scientist and inventor.
Climate and Weather Overview
Asbury experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters. This type of climate is typical for the central United States, with significant seasonal variations in temperature and weather patterns. The city receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with rainfall being more common in the spring and summer months.
Average Monthly Climate Data
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Average Precipitation (in) | Average Sunny Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 34.0 | 2.2 | 10 |
| February | 38.0 | 2.3 | 10 |
| March | 48.0 | 3.5 | 12 |
| April | 58.0 | 3.8 | 12 |
| May | 66.0 | 5.1 | 14 |
| June | 75.0 | 4.5 | 15 |
| July | 80.0 | 3.6 | 16 |
| August | 79.0 | 3.9 | 15 |
| September | 71.0 | 4.4 | 13 |
| October | 60.0 | 3.8 | 12 |
| November | 48.0 | 3.7 | 10 |
| December | 38.0 | 2.9 | 9 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Asbury is characterized by cold temperatures, with average lows around 22°F and highs reaching about 45°F. Snowfall is occasional, contributing to a winter landscape. Precipitation averages around 2.2 inches, mostly in the form of rain and snow.
Natural Disasters
Asbury occasionally experiences winter storms in January, which can lead to heavy snowfall and icy conditions, causing travel disruptions and power outages.
Activities
Inside Activities: Indoor activities such as visiting local museums, enjoying community events at nearby community centers, and indoor sports at the recreation center in Joplin are popular.
Outside Activities: Outdoor enthusiasts often engage in activities like snowshoeing, ice fishing, and sledding in nearby parks and rural areas.
February
February remains cold with similar temperature patterns to January. Average lows are around 25°F, and highs reach about 48°F. Precipitation is slightly higher, averaging 2.3 inches.
Natural Disasters
Winter storms continue to pose a threat, although they are less frequent than in January.
Activities
Inside Activities: Cultural events and workshops at local community centers, as well as library programs in Joplin, offer indoor entertainment.
Outside Activities: Outdoor activities include cross-country skiing and ice skating at community rinks.
March
March marks the beginning of spring with temperatures starting to warm up. Average lows are around 35°F, and highs reach about 57°F. Precipitation increases to about 3.5 inches, primarily as rain.
Natural Disasters
Flooding can occur due to melting snow and spring rains, although it is not a common occurrence.
Activities
Inside Activities: Spring crafts and indoor markets become popular as residents anticipate the warmer weather.
Outside Activities: Early spring hiking and bird watching at local parks are enjoyable as the flora begins to bloom.
April
April sees a more noticeable increase in temperatures, with lows around 45°F and highs averaging 68°F. Rainfall is more common, with an average precipitation of 3.8 inches.
Natural Disasters
The risk of natural disasters decreases, but heavy rains can still cause localized flooding.
Activities
Inside Activities: Art exhibits, cultural presentations, and indoor sports continue to draw crowds.
Outside Activities: Gardening, fishing, and visiting local parks are popular as the weather becomes more favorable.
May
May brings significantly warmer temperatures with lows around 55°F and highs reaching 77°F. Precipitation averages 5.1 inches, often in the form of showers and thunderstorms.
Natural Disasters
Thunderstorms are more frequent, sometimes accompanied by hail or strong winds.
Activities
Inside Activities: Indoor concerts, theater performances, and community events provide cultural experiences.
Outside Activities: Farmers’ markets, outdoor festivals, and picnics become common as the weather improves.
June
June is the start of summer with temperatures ranging from lows of 64°F to highs of 85°F. It is one of the wetter months, with an average precipitation of 4.5 inches.
Natural Disasters
Severe thunderstorms and occasional tornadoes are possible, particularly in the first half of the month.
Activities
Inside Activities: Educational programs and community events continue to attract locals and visitors.
Outside Activities: Hiking, biking, and fishing are popular as residents take advantage of the warm weather.
July
July is the warmest month with average lows around 69°F and highs reaching 90°F. Precipitation is slightly lower at 3.6 inches, with frequent thunderstorms.
Natural Disasters
Heatwaves can occur, but severe weather such as thunderstorms and occasional tornadoes are more common.
Activities
Inside Activities: Visiting air-conditioned museums and attending indoor events are favored during hot spells.
Outside Activities: Swimming, boating, and attending outdoor concerts are popular summertime activities.
August
August remains warm with temperatures ranging from lows of 68°F to highs of 88°F. Precipitation averages 3.9 inches, mostly from thunderstorms.
Natural Disasters
Similar to July, thunderstorms and heatwaves are the primary weather concerns.
Activities
Inside Activities: Indoor sports and community center events provide relief from the summer heat.
Outside Activities: Hiking, camping, and participating in local fairs and festivals are common.
September
September sees a gradual cooling with lows around 60°F and highs of 81°F. Precipitation averages 4.4 inches, mostly from fall showers.
Natural Disasters
The risk of severe weather decreases, but occasional thunderstorms can still occur.
Activities
Inside Activities: Fall arts and crafts fairs, along with cultural events, are popular.
Outside Activities: Apple picking, hiking, and enjoying the fall foliage at local parks and preserves are favored activities.
October
October brings cooler temperatures with lows around 48°F and highs reaching 70°F. Precipitation averages 3.8 inches, often in the form of light rain.
Natural Disasters
The likelihood of natural disasters is low, although early frost can impact agriculture.
Activities
Inside Activities: Halloween events and indoor fall festivals attract families.
Outside Activities: Leaf peeping, hayrides, and visiting pumpkin patches are popular outdoor activities.
November
November sees further cooling with lows around 37°F and highs averaging 58°F. Precipitation averages 3.7 inches, transitioning from rain to occasional snow by the end of the month.
Natural Disasters
Early winter storms can occur, but they are generally mild.
Activities
Inside Activities: Holiday craft fairs and indoor community gatherings begin to take place.
Outside Activities: Hiking and preparing for winter sports are common as residents enjoy the last of the fall weather.
December
December is characterized by cold temperatures with lows around 27°F and highs of 47°F. Precipitation averages 2.9 inches, mostly as rain with occasional snow.
Natural Disasters
Winter storms and heavy rainfall can disrupt travel and daily activities.
Activities
Inside Activities: Holiday events, indoor markets, and family gatherings are prevalent during the festive season.
Outside Activities: Ice skating, snowmobiling, and winter hiking in nearby parks provide outdoor entertainment.