St. Louis, Missouri – Thunderstorms are already developing across eastern Missouri this morning, and conditions are expected to intensify east of the Mississippi River between noon and early evening, bringing a tornado threat to the metro region.
According to the National Weather Service in St. Louis, storms through 12 p.m. may produce marginally severe hail up to 1 inch in diameter across parts of eastern Missouri. The greater risk shifts into southern Illinois this afternoon, where a Level 3 out of 5 Enhanced Risk is in place. That includes the potential for damaging winds, large hail and a strong tornado rated EF-2 or higher.
Communities along I-64, I-70, I-55 and I-44 should prepare for rapidly changing conditions, especially between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Drivers crossing the Poplar Street Bridge into Illinois or traveling near Belleville, Edwardsville and Mount Vernon could encounter intense downpours and wind gusts exceeding 60 mph. Storms may organize quickly as they move east, increasing the tornado threat.
Emergency managers urge residents to review shelter plans now and enable wireless emergency alerts. If a Tornado Warning is issued, move immediately to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor away from windows.
Storm activity is expected to shift eastward later this evening, but additional watches and warnings are likely as the system strengthens across Illinois.
