Springfield, IL – Central Illinois is bracing for severe thunderstorms tonight, bringing threats of damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a warning for residents to stay weather aware from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. as the storms track southeast.
According to the NWS, areas north of I-74, including Peoria and Bloomington, are at the highest risk for severe weather, with wind gusts over 75 mph and hail up to a quarter size possible. Thunderstorms are expected to continue through Tuesday morning, potentially extending the heat advisory in place for central and southeast Illinois.
The heat index values have soared to 105-115 degrees today, particularly high near the Illinois River. Relief is anticipated midweek as cooler, drier air moves in, bringing highs in the 70s to around 80 degrees by Wednesday.
