Springfield, IL – Strong to potentially severe thunderstorms are expected to move across parts of Illinois today, Sunday, bringing the threat of damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and isolated severe weather impacts across multiple regions.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe storms covers much of central and eastern Illinois, including areas near Champaign, Bloomington, Effingham, and Mount Vernon, while a broader Marginal Risk (Level 1) extends across much of the rest of the state, including Peoria, Springfield, and the St. Louis Metro East.
Storms are expected to develop through the afternoon and evening hours as a strong weather system moves east. The primary threats include strong wind gusts, localized flooding from heavy rain, and frequent lightning, which could impact travel and outdoor activities. While tornado risk is currently low, isolated severe storms cannot be ruled out.
The Illinois State Fire Marshal urged residents to remain weather aware and prepared. Officials emphasized that severe weather can occur at any time of year and encouraged residents to ensure they have multiple ways to receive warnings, including NOAA Weather Radios, Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on cell phones, local TV and radio, weather apps, and trusted online sources such as weather.gov.
Outdoor warning sirens are designed to alert people who are outside and should not be relied upon as the sole method of receiving warnings indoors.
Residents across Illinois, especially in central and southern counties, are encouraged to monitor conditions closely, secure loose outdoor items, and have a plan in place should warnings be issued later today.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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