Springfield, Ill. – A tornado watch is now in effect for more than 60 counties across Illinois and eastern Missouri until 4 p.m. Wednesday, putting millions under a heightened threat for damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes as severe storms roll through the region.
According to the Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch 432 was issued at 9:45 a.m. CDT and includes central and southern Illinois counties from Peoria to Carbondale, as well as key Missouri areas including St. Louis, Cape Girardeau, and Perryville. The watch extends through 4 p.m., covering major interstates like I-55, I-57, and I-70, where rapid storm development could lead to sudden travel hazards.
Cities under threat include Springfield, Champaign, Decatur, Effingham, and Quincy in Illinois, along with Jefferson County, St. Charles, and St. Louis City in Missouri. Emergency managers urge residents to remain weather-aware, have multiple ways to receive alerts, and avoid non-essential travel if storms approach.
Today’s system marks one of the more widespread severe weather days of June, with the risk zone extending from western Indiana through eastern Missouri. Afternoon storms may rapidly intensify due to high humidity and unstable air.
More updates and potential warnings are expected as storms develop. The tornado watch remains in effect until 4 p.m., and additional watches or warnings may follow.
