Springfield, Illinois – A more dangerous threat is now developing across central Illinois, where severe thunderstorms could bring 70 mph winds, large hail, and possible tornadoes beginning Thursday afternoon and continuing into Friday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Central Illinois, the first round of storms is expected Thursday afternoon into early evening, with damaging winds up to 70 mph, hail up to golf ball size, and a few tornadoes possible. Cities including Springfield, Peoria, Bloomington, and Decatur sit within a Level 2 risk, indicating scattered severe storms are likely.
Travel along major corridors such as I-55, I-72, and I-74 could quickly deteriorate during storm development, with strong wind gusts capable of downing tree limbs and creating debris on roadways. Power outages are also possible in areas hit by the strongest storms.
A second round of severe weather is expected Friday evening into the overnight hours, bringing another chance for 60+ mph winds, hail up to 1 inch, and isolated tornadoes. This extended threat increases the risk for repeated impacts across the same areas.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, review severe weather safety plans, and stay alert for warnings both Thursday and Friday. Additional watches and advisories are likely as storm timing becomes more precise.
