St. Louis, MO – Forecasters are warning residents across parts of Missouri, Illinois, and Arkansas to prepare for severe weather today, including wind gusts up to 70 mph, heavy rainfall nearing 2 inches, and large hail as a Tornado Watch remains in effect through 4 p.m. CDT.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch Number 97 was issued this morning at 8:45 a.m., covering northern and central Arkansas, southern Illinois, and southern and eastern Missouri. The severe storm threat includes not only the potential for isolated tornadoes but also damaging straight-line winds and significant hail.
Forecasters said hail could reach 1.5 inches in diameter while rainfall totals of up to 2 inches may lead to localized flooding. Wind gusts as high as 70 mph are expected across portions of the watch area as multiple storm cells move through the region.
The Tornado Watch extends approximately 60 miles east and west of a line from near Alton, Illinois to southwest of Hot Springs, Arkansas. Weather officials emphasized that a Tornado Watch indicates conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, urging residents to stay alert and take immediate action if warnings are issued.
Travel disruptions are possible due to intense downpours, wind damage, and reduced visibility. Aviation warnings are also in effect for turbulence and severe weather impacts aloft.
Multiple severe weather watches are currently active across the Midwest, and the Storm Prediction Center continues to monitor storm developments throughout the day.
Be sure to follow us on Instagram & like us on Facebook to stay up-to-date on more relevant new stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have something you’d like to let us know about? Message us on our social channels and let us know about it!
