Lincoln, Ill. – Strong thunderstorms are expected to develop across central Illinois Saturday afternoon and evening as a cold front pushes through the region, bringing the potential for damaging wind gusts and heavy rainfall. Forecasters say the greatest threat for severe weather will be across east-central Illinois, where the atmosphere is expected to be most favorable for stronger storms.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, thunderstorms will form ahead of the advancing cold front during the afternoon before spreading east through the evening. While not every storm will become severe, those that do could produce locally damaging wind gusts capable of downing tree limbs, causing isolated power outages and creating hazardous travel conditions.
The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of central Illinois, including Springfield, Decatur, Bloomington, Lincoln and Peoria, under a Level 1 of 5 (Marginal Risk) for severe weather. A Level 2 of 5 (Slight Risk) extends into east-central Illinois, including areas near Champaign, Danville and Pontiac, where the potential for damaging winds is highest.
In addition to strong winds, thunderstorms may produce locally heavy rainfall, leading to ponding on roads and brief travel disruptions during the afternoon and evening. Frequent lightning will also pose a danger to anyone participating in outdoor activities.
Residents are encouraged to stay weather aware, have multiple ways to receive warnings and move indoors immediately if thunderstorms approach. The National Weather Service will continue monitoring conditions, and additional watches or warnings may be issued if storms intensify as the cold front moves across Illinois.
