Springfield, Illinois – Funnel clouds have been spotted over central Illinois Monday evening, prompting weather officials to urge residents to stay alert through the night. One funnel cloud was reported near Pana in Christian County around 5:40 p.m., raising concerns across several surrounding areas.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, atmospheric conditions remain favorable for the development of additional cold air funnel clouds, particularly across central and eastern Illinois. These funnels typically form in vertically developed clouds and may linger before dissipating. While not usually dangerous, officials warn that in rare cases, these funnels can briefly touch down.
Residents in Springfield, Decatur, Champaign-Urbana, and Bloomington-Normal are advised to monitor the skies and be prepared to seek shelter if a funnel cloud appears to lower toward the ground. Unlike harmless low-hanging clouds, true funnel clouds will exhibit a visible, counter-clockwise spinning motion.
The threat is expected to continue through midnight, with weather conditions stabilizing by early Tuesday. Stay tuned for updates and take precautions if conditions worsen.
