Springfield, Ill. – Residents across southeast Illinois should be prepared to take shelter quickly this evening as severe thunderstorms capable of producing destructive hail, damaging winds and isolated tornadoes move through the region. Travel could become hazardous in a short period of time as intense storms develop.
According to the National Weather Service in Central Illinois, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 12 a.m. CDT Monday for portions of southeast Illinois where atmospheric conditions are favorable for severe storm development. The watch includes communities such as Effingham, Centralia, Harrisburg and nearby areas.
The strongest storms could produce wind gusts up to 70 mph and hail up to 2 inches in diameter, large enough to damage vehicles, roofs and crops. Forecasters also warn that a couple of tornadoes are possible within the watch area if storms become more organized.
Heavy rainfall is another concern, with isolated rainfall totals around 2 inches possible in a short time. Localized flash flooding could develop, especially in low-lying areas, poor drainage locations and along small streams.
The watch covers an area with an estimated 1.5 million residents, along with hundreds of schools and dozens of hospitals. Anyone in the affected counties should closely monitor local media, NOAA Weather Radio or trusted weather alerts for any Severe Thunderstorm or Tornado Warnings that may be issued.
If a warning is issued, move immediately to a sturdy building and stay away from windows. Secure outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel during the strongest storms, and never drive through flooded roadways. Additional warnings are likely as thunderstorms develop and move across southeast Illinois through the evening.
