Springfield, IL – Severe thunderstorms are expected to develop across Central Illinois Tuesday afternoon, with the greatest risk arriving during the evening commute and continuing into the night.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, storms will begin forming Tuesday afternoon and intensify into the evening hours, bringing threats that include damaging wind gusts, large hail, and a few tornadoes. The highest risk zone stretches from Springfield and Decatur east toward Champaign and Danville.
Cities along major routes like I-55, I-72, and I-74 could see rapidly changing conditions, including sudden downpours reducing visibility below one mile and strong wind gusts capable of downing tree limbs. Localized flooding is also possible in low-lying areas during heavier rainfall.
Peoria, Bloomington, and Effingham are also within the broader risk area, where scattered storms could turn severe quickly. Emergency managers urge residents to secure outdoor items and remain alert for warnings, especially during late afternoon and evening hours.
Have multiple ways to receive alerts and be prepared to move indoors quickly if warnings are issued. The storm threat will diminish later Tuesday night, but additional updates are expected as timing and severity become clearer.
