Springfield, IL – A volatile weather system is set to impact central Illinois Friday afternoon, bringing the threat of severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall to much of the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, strong to severe storms are expected to develop between 4 p.m. and midnight Friday, with the greatest risk focused southeast of Interstate 55. Residents in areas like Springfield, Decatur, Mattoon, and Effingham should prepare for damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph, quarter-size hail, and possible localized flash flooding.
The storm system could bring the heaviest rain between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m., with overnight lows dipping into the 40s. The severe weather risk is categorized as a Level 2 out of 5 for east-central and southeast Illinois, with flooding and hail being the primary hazards.
The unsettled pattern is forecast to continue through the weekend, with additional showers and storms Saturday into Sunday. Highs will range from the low 50s to mid-60s, with nighttime lows falling into the 30s by Sunday night.
Officials urge residents to monitor alerts, avoid travel during peak storm hours, and secure outdoor items. Flashlights, extra batteries, and weather radios are recommended in case of outages.
