Effingham, Illinois – Severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes could rapidly intensify near the I-57 and I-70 interchange after 2 p.m. Thursday, putting south-central Illinois at heightened risk through the evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, areas near Effingham have been upgraded to an Enhanced Risk, or Level 3 out of 5, for severe weather today. The greatest concern includes damaging wind gusts over 60 mph, large hail and the potential for tornadoes, some of which could be strong.
The enhanced risk zone stretches from near Mount Vernon and Salem north toward Champaign and west toward Springfield. Communities along I-55, I-57, I-64 and I-70 should prepare for rapidly changing weather between mid-afternoon and late evening. Storms may develop quickly and organize into clusters capable of producing brief tornado spin-ups or longer-track tornadoes, particularly east of I-57.
Heavy downpours could reduce visibility on major corridors, and strong winds may down trees and power lines, leading to scattered outages. Drivers should monitor alerts closely, especially during peak travel hours.
Emergency managers urge residents to review shelter plans now, enable wireless emergency alerts and identify the safest room in their home or workplace. If a Tornado Warning is issued, move immediately to an interior room on the lowest floor away from windows.
Severe weather threats are expected to shift east later tonight, but additional watches and warnings are likely through the evening hours.
