St. Louis, MO – Strong to severe thunderstorms could impact parts of Missouri and southern Illinois this afternoon and evening, according to the National Weather Service in St. Louis.
Meteorologists say a strong cold front moving across the region will trigger a narrow but potentially intense line of thunderstorms later today.
Enhanced Severe Weather Risk
The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of central and eastern Missouri, including the St. Louis area, under a Level 3 out of 5 “Enhanced Risk” for severe weather.
This means numerous severe storms are possible, with some capable of producing significant impacts.
Main Threats
Forecasters say the strongest storms may produce:
- Damaging wind gusts
- Brief isolated tornadoes
- Heavy rain and lightning
The greatest risk for severe weather is expected across southeast Missouri and southern Illinois, where storms may be strongest as they move east.
Timing of Storms
Storms are expected to develop during the afternoon and continue into the evening, moving quickly across the region as the cold front passes.
Because the storms may form into a fast-moving line, conditions could change rapidly.
What Residents Should Do
The National Weather Service urges residents to prepare in advance:
- Have multiple ways to receive weather warnings
- Know where to take shelter during severe weather
- Stay updated on weather alerts throughout the afternoon
Forecasters say the storm system could bring a brief but intense period of severe weather, so residents should remain weather aware until the system moves out of the region.
