Mattoon, Illinois – Funnel clouds were spotted Saturday afternoon between Arcola and Mattoon as unstable air developed across east central Illinois, prompting alerts from the National Weather Service.
According to the NWS in Lincoln, IL, conditions are favorable for weak, short-lived funnel clouds east of I-57 through about 6 p.m. CDT. These funnels form in vertically developed clouds along shallow boundaries, typically without thunder or severe weather. While visually dramatic, they rarely touch the ground and do not prompt tornado warnings.
The activity is concentrated in Douglas, Coles, and surrounding counties, particularly visible in flat, open farmland. Local officials emphasized that while no immediate danger is expected, residents should remain alert for changing sky conditions and limit unnecessary travel during active development.
This type of atmospheric setup is common in late spring and summer afternoons, especially when humidity is high and wind shifts aloft are subtle. No damage or injuries have been reported as of Saturday afternoon.
Conditions are expected to stabilize after 6 p.m., ending the threat. No tornado warnings are planned unless more organized rotation develops.
