Springfield, MO – A multi-state tornado watch is in effect until 7 p.m. Friday, with dangerous storms expected to impact parts of southeast Missouri, southern Illinois, and northwest Arkansas.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch 262 includes more than 100 counties across the tri-state region. Areas under the watch include St. Louis, Cape Girardeau, and Rolla in Missouri; Marion, Madison, and St. Clair counties in Illinois; and Benton, Boone, and Conway counties in Arkansas. Forecasters warn of conditions favorable for tornadoes, damaging winds up to 70 mph, and large hail.
In Missouri, Interstate 44 travelers should prepare for rapidly changing conditions, especially near Rolla and Lebanon. In Illinois, storm cells moving through the Metro East area could intensify quickly during the afternoon commute. Arkansas residents in the Ozark Mountains and along Highway 65 should remain alert for sudden warnings.
Officials urge residents to have multiple ways to receive alerts, charge mobile devices in advance, and seek sturdy shelter at the first sign of rotation. Outdoor plans should be reconsidered across the affected zones.
This tornado watch remains in effect through 7 p.m. Friday. Additional warnings or extensions may follow as the storm system continues eastward.
