Springfield, Ill. –
Residents across Central Illinois should brace for a stretch of severe weather beginning Monday, with thunderstorms likely to intensify Tuesday night through Wednesday, especially west of I-57.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, increasing cloud cover today will lead into a stormy pattern early in the workweek. A 30% chance of thunderstorms begins Monday in southeast and east-central Illinois, growing to a 70% chance of severe storms Tuesday night, particularly west of I-57. Storms could bring heavy rain, lightning, and damaging wind gusts.
Temperatures will trend hotter through Tuesday, climbing from the mid-80s today to near 90°F by Tuesday afternoon. Areas including Decatur, Champaign, and Bloomington could see the warmest highs of the month so far. On Wednesday, storm coverage increases, with a 60–80% chance of widespread thunderstorms, some of which could be severe.
Drivers should monitor local conditions and avoid travel during Tuesday night’s storms. Residents are encouraged to charge devices, secure outdoor items, and prepare for potential power outages.
Storms taper off by Thursday, with cooler highs in the low 80s expected. Additional updates are likely as severe weather watches may be issued Monday night into Tuesday.
