Chester, Illinois – A fast-moving severe thunderstorm with 60 mph wind gusts and quarter-size hail is hammering parts of southern Illinois and eastern Missouri, including the towns of Chester, Sparta, and Ste. Genevieve, through 5 p.m. Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in St. Louis, the storm was located near Evansville around 4:19 p.m. and is tracking northeast at 65 mph. A Tornado Watch also remains in effect for the region until 7 p.m., with residents urged to stay weather-aware.
Communities in Washington, Monroe, Randolph, and St. Clair counties in Illinois, as well as northeastern Sainte Genevieve County in Missouri, are most at risk. Large hail has already been reported in Ste. Genevieve, and damage to vehicles, roofs, trees, and siding is possible. Felix Valle House State Park and stretches of Interstate 64 between exits 41 and 61 are in the storm’s path.
People in the area should seek shelter in sturdy buildings, avoid windows, and delay travel until the storm passes. Charge mobile devices and monitor local alerts in case additional warnings are issued.
Severe weather threats may continue into the evening as the Tornado Watch remains active.
