Springfield, IL – A powerful low-pressure system swept through the Midwest on Friday, bringing damaging winds, severe thunderstorms, and at least three tornadoes across central Illinois.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), strong southerly winds ahead of the system produced widespread gusts exceeding 50 mph, with Springfield Capitol Airport recording a peak gust of 59 mph. Several areas reported downed trees and power lines, while a park structure in Oakford collapsed due to the winds.
Severe thunderstorms developed Friday night, intensifying along Interstate 72. Strong wind shear and unstable atmospheric conditions fueled damaging straight-line winds and tornadoes. The most intense storms occurred near Cumberland and Coles counties, where radar detected strong rotation.
Preliminary storm surveys confirmed three tornadoes: an EF-2 tornado south of Neoga, and two EF-1 tornadoes near Mattoon and Paris. Additional damage assessments are ongoing.
Storms weakened early Saturday as they moved into Indiana. Officials urge residents to stay alert for further updates.
