Central Illinois – Severe thunderstorms are expected to hit Central Illinois this evening, bringing significant weather changes to the region. The US National Weather Service Central Illinois warns of a line of strong to severe thunderstorms moving in from the northwest, starting around 8 p.m. near Galesburg and reaching I-72 toward midnight. Damaging winds and localized, brief flooding are the main concerns, though the storms should weaken as they approach I-72.
According to the National Weather Service, the storms will bring scattered wind damage with gusts up to 60 mph and potential localized flooding from 1 to 2 inches of rain falling in a short period. Residents with outdoor activities planned this evening are advised to stay weather-aware and seek shelter in sturdy buildings as the storms approach.
In addition to the severe weather tonight, Central Illinois will continue to experience a heat wave over the next few days. High temperatures will persist in the low to mid-90s today, with the heat index reaching up to 100 degrees. Sunday will offer slight relief with highs in the mid-80s to around 90 degrees, but the heat will intensify again on Monday and Tuesday, with temperatures climbing back into the mid-90s and the heat index reaching 100-105 degrees.
