Charleston, IL – Severe thunderstorms are expected in east-central Illinois Friday afternoon, with possible hail and wind gusts up to 60 mph. Residents in areas between Charleston, Champaign, and Pontiac should prepare for the storm window from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Hailstones could reach one inch in diameter, with scattered storms intensifying throughout the day.
According to the National Weather Service, tonight will bring a 20-60% chance of thunderstorms after midnight, especially west of I-57. These storms are expected to spread across central Illinois into Friday afternoon, becoming severe in localized areas. With temperatures climbing to 90 degrees Friday and Saturday, storms may develop rapidly.
Officials advise having multiple ways to receive weather alerts and preparing safe shelter options. Strong winds could cause dangerous driving conditions on I-57 and I-70. As storms continue into the weekend, chances for thunderstorms remain elevated through Monday, with temperatures cooling to the 70s and 80s by Sunday. Monitor forecasts and stay alert for severe weather warnings.
