St. Louis, MO – A tornado warning remains in effect until 10:45 p.m. CDT for southeastern Iron and southeastern Reynolds counties in Missouri as a confirmed tornado moves northeast through the area.
According to the National Weather Service in St. Louis, the tornado was observed near Garwood, approximately 35 miles southwest of Ironton, traveling at 50 mph. Emergency management officials have confirmed the tornado, which is accompanied by quarter-sized hail.
Residents in the affected areas, including Des Arc, Vulcan, and Clearwater Lake Recreational Area, are urged to take immediate shelter. The storm has a history of producing tornadoes, and flying debris poses a severe danger to those without proper protection. Mobile homes, vehicles, roofs, and windows are at risk of significant damage, and tree damage is likely.
Officials stress that nighttime tornadoes are particularly hazardous due to reduced visibility. Residents should move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and avoid windows. Those in mobile homes or vehicles should seek the nearest substantial shelter immediately.
Additionally, the National Weather Service has issued a new tornado warning for northwestern Montgomery County and northeastern Macoupin County in southwestern Illinois until 11:15 p.m. CDT.
At 10:27 p.m. CDT, radar detected a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado near East Gillespie, approximately 7 miles east of Carlinville, moving northeast at 50 mph. Quarter-sized hail is also possible with this storm.
Residents in Carlinville, Litchfield, and Raymond should seek shelter immediately, as well as those in Honey Bend, Atwater, Standard City, Waggoner, and Nilwood. Interstate 55 travelers between exits 52 and 63 should be alert to hazardous conditions.
This is a developing situation, and residents are advised to monitor local weather alerts and follow emergency preparedness guidelines. The National Weather Service will provide further updates as the storm progresses.
