Peoria, Ill. – Residents across west-central Illinois should prepare for multiple rounds of severe thunderstorms after 8 p.m. Saturday, bringing damaging wind gusts and heavy rainfall that could cause localized flooding. The National Weather Service in Lincoln warns the threat may persist late into the evening, urging people to have multiple ways to receive weather alerts.
According to the NWS, the greatest risk lies west of the Illinois River, where storms could produce winds strong enough to down trees and power lines, along with rainfall rates capable of overwhelming drainage systems in a short period. Areas including Galesburg, Macomb, and Rushville are under a “slight risk” level, with storms tracking east toward Peoria, Bloomington, and Lincoln.
Drivers are advised to avoid flood-prone roads and remain alert for rapidly changing conditions. If traveling at night, officials recommend turning around rather than attempting to drive through standing water. Those in mobile homes or outdoor events should have a shelter plan in place before storms arrive.
Storm chances will ease toward daybreak Sunday, but additional rounds of rain and storms remain possible early next week.
