Carbondale, IL– Drivers along Interstate 57 from Carbondale to Mount Vernon could face rapidly changing conditions Wednesday afternoon as strong thunderstorms threaten southern Illinois with large hail, damaging winds and a possible tornado.
According to the National Weather Service in St. Louis, the greatest risk for severe storms will develop between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. across areas south of Interstate 64, placing Jackson and Jefferson counties in the primary impact zone. Forecasters have placed the region under a Level 2 out of 5 severe weather threat, signaling scattered storms capable of producing significant impacts.
Communities including Carbondale, Murphysboro, Marion and Mount Vernon sit in the corridor with the highest chance for severe hail. Wind gusts could exceed 60 mph, strong enough to down tree limbs and cause isolated power outages. Brief tornadoes cannot be ruled out, especially with any discrete storms that form ahead of the main line.
Travelers on I-57 and Route 13 should prepare for sudden downpours and reduced visibility during the afternoon commute. Residents are urged to secure outdoor furniture, park vehicles under cover to protect from hail and ensure weather alerts are enabled on mobile devices.
Storms are expected to weaken by early evening, but additional watches or warnings may be issued if conditions intensify.
