Springfield, IL – Thunderstorm activity is expected to increase across central and southeast Illinois this afternoon, bringing a risk of strong to severe weather during peak travel hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, storms will develop between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, with the primary concern being damaging straight-line winds exceeding 60 mph. Areas along and near Interstate 70—including communities from Effingham to Vandalia and Charleston—could experience the most intense conditions.
Meteorologists said rainfall could also be locally heavy in the strongest storms, though the overall tornado risk remains low. The NWS has issued a Level 1 (Slight) risk for severe weather across much of central Illinois, meaning isolated severe storms are possible.
Drivers traveling along I-70 and nearby routes should monitor weather alerts closely and be prepared for sudden gusts, reduced visibility, and brief heavy downpours. The agency advised securing outdoor items and exercising caution during the afternoon and early evening hours.
Residents can track the latest radar updates and alerts via the National Weather Service Lincoln social media pages or weather.gov/lincoln.
