Central Illinois, IL – A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for central Illinois and central Indiana, effective this Monday morning from 12:55 AM until 5:00 AM EDT. The National Weather Service (NWS) Storm Prediction Center in Norman, OK, issued the watch, warning of the potential for damaging wind gusts and possible tornadoes.
According to the NWS, a cluster of thunderstorms is expected to move southeastward through the early morning hours, posing a threat for severe winds up to 70 mph. The watch area extends approximately 30 miles north and south of a line from 10 miles west of Decatur, IL, to 35 miles northeast of Indianapolis, IN.
Residents in the watch area are advised to remain vigilant and monitor weather updates. The NWS emphasized that a severe thunderstorm watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather, including thunderstorms that can produce tornadoes.
Precautionary actions should be taken, including securing outdoor objects and preparing for possible power outages. The NWS advises people in the affected areas to stay indoors and away from windows during the storm.
Aviation warnings include extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts up to 60 knots, with maximum storm tops reaching 50,000 feet. Pilots are urged to exercise caution. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
