Macomb, Ill. – Strong thunderstorms moving in from the northwest could bring isolated tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail to western and central Illinois through Sunday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln and the Quad Cities, a Level 2 (Slight) risk for severe storms is in place today, especially between 2 and 8 p.m. Counties under heightened threat include McDonough, Knox, Warren, and Schuyler, where wind gusts over 60 mph and quarter-sized hail are likely. An isolated tornado can’t be ruled out in areas stretching from Scotland County, Missouri into west-central Illinois.
The strongest activity is expected to impact Macomb, Galesburg, Rushville, and Jacksonville. Residents should secure outdoor items, charge devices, and avoid travel during peak storm hours. Localized flooding is possible in areas of heavy rain, though widespread flooding is not expected.
This marks one of the first widespread severe weather days of June for the region, and conditions may shift quickly. NOAA advises having multiple ways to receive alerts.
Storms may taper off late this evening, but more thunderstorms are possible later in the week. Watches and warnings may be issued with little notice, so stay weather-aware.