Princeton, Ill. – A tornado watch remains in effect until 8 p.m. Tuesday for parts of north central and northwest Illinois, where severe thunderstorms could rapidly spin up dangerous conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, Tornado Watch 304 includes Bureau, Putnam, and Henry counties. Residents in cities like Princeton, Geneseo, and Hennepin are urged to remain alert as storms capable of producing tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail track across the region this evening.
The greatest risk lies along I-80 and surrounding rural corridors, where scattered supercells may develop in the early evening. Outdoor events should be postponed, and those without access to safe shelter should make arrangements now.
If a warning is issued, take cover immediately — basements, interior rooms, or storm shelters are safest. Keep weather radios and phones charged, and avoid traveling in open areas where visibility could suddenly drop in strong rain or wind gusts.
The tornado watch is set to expire at 8 p.m., but conditions could prompt further advisories into the night. Stay tuned for updates if storms continue building past sunset.
