Springfield, Illinois – Strong thunderstorms are expected to develop across central Illinois late this afternoon and continue into the evening, bringing the threat of damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph, heavy rainfall and isolated flash flooding. The greatest concern will be across northeast and east-central Illinois, where the strongest storms could create hazardous travel conditions and scattered power outages.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, thunderstorms will develop ahead of an advancing cold front during the late afternoon and evening. The Storm Prediction Center places much of east-central Illinois under a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe weather, with surrounding areas in a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5). Damaging straight-line winds are the primary hazard, while hail is expected to remain small if it develops. The tornado threat is low but not zero.
Communities including Springfield, Bloomington, Decatur, Champaign, Urbana, Danville, Peoria, Lincoln, Jacksonville and Mattoon should be prepared for rapidly changing weather as storms move south at around 30 mph. Heavy downpours may lead to localized flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas, especially during the evening commute.
Residents should secure outdoor furniture and other loose objects before storms arrive and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings. If a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued, move indoors immediately and stay away from windows. Drivers should slow down during heavy rain and never attempt to drive across water-covered roadways.
Storms are expected to weaken later tonight after the cold front passes, but additional severe weather warnings may be issued this afternoon as thunderstorms develop across central Illinois.
