St. Louis, Missouri – Drivers along I-44 in Missouri and I-70 in Illinois should brace for severe thunderstorms Friday afternoon, with baseball-sized hail and tornadoes possible between noon and 8 p.m. The storms could cause major damage to vehicles, homes, and power lines, especially in areas south of the highways.
According to the National Weather Service in St. Louis, the greatest threat spans from Rolla, Missouri, through St. Louis, and into southern Illinois, including Effingham and Vandalia. Winds may exceed 60 mph, and multiple rounds of storms are expected throughout the day. A few tornadoes cannot be ruled out.
Residents in areas like Sullivan, MO, and Highland, IL, are urged to have multiple ways to receive alerts and to move indoors quickly if thunder is heard. Those without sturdy shelter, such as mobile home occupants or outdoor workers, are at higher risk of injury from large hail or wind-blown debris.
Travelers are advised to delay non-essential trips during the afternoon and evening, especially along I-44 and I-70. Charge devices in advance and monitor local emergency management updates.
Severe weather watches or warnings may be issued Friday morning as the system develops. Stay weather-aware and be ready to act fast.
