Carbondale, Illinois – A widespread severe weather threat is unfolding across southern Illinois tonight, with 22 counties now under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch through 1 a.m. Monday.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Watch 74 includes Clark, Clay, Coles, Crawford, Cumberland, Edgar, Edwards, Effingham, Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Lawrence, Perry, Richland, Saline, Wabash, Wayne, White, and Williamson counties.
Cities such as Carbondale, Marion, Mount Vernon, Effingham, and Harrisburg are all within the impact zone, where storms could produce wind gusts exceeding 60 mph and pockets of hail. These storms are expected to organize into a line and track east across the region overnight.
Travel along major routes including I-57, I-64, and I-24 may become hazardous due to sudden heavy rain, reduced visibility, and debris on roadways. Rural areas could also see isolated power outages if stronger wind cores develop.
Residents across all 22 counties should secure outdoor items, charge devices, and remain alert for warnings. The storm threat will continue through 1 a.m., with additional alerts likely as storms intensify and move east.
