Springfield, Illinois – Residents across central Illinois should prepare for the potential of strong to severe thunderstorms beginning Sunday night and continuing through Monday evening as a cold front moves across the state. While the exact timing and coverage remain uncertain, forecasters say Monday currently appears to offer the greatest chance for severe weather.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, the first round of storms could develop late Sunday evening and continue overnight, followed by another round Monday morning and again from mid-afternoon into Monday evening. Forecasters emphasize that uncertainty remains high this far in advance, but confidence is increasing that at least some areas could experience severe thunderstorms.
The primary threat will be damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph, with isolated small hail also possible. The National Weather Service says tornadoes are not expected with either round of storms, although residents should continue monitoring updates as the forecast evolves.
Communities including Springfield, Peoria, Bloomington-Normal, Decatur, Champaign, Lincoln, Galesburg, Jacksonville, and Effingham should remain alert for changing weather conditions. Motorists traveling on Interstates 55, 57, 72, 74, and 80 could encounter sudden downpours, gusty winds, and dangerous lightning if thunderstorms strengthen.
Residents are encouraged to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, especially Sunday night when storms may develop after dark. Secure loose outdoor items ahead of Monday’s stronger storm potential and be prepared to move indoors quickly if severe thunderstorm warnings are issued.
The severe weather threat is expected to diminish after the cold front moves through Monday evening, although updated outlooks, watches, or warnings may be issued as confidence improves in the timing and intensity of the storms.
