Strong to potentially severe storms are expected to affect parts of central and western Illinois from late Sunday through Monday evening. The storms may bring wind gusts up to 60 mph, frequent lightning, and heavy rain, posing risks to travel and outdoor activities.
Areas Affected by Severe Weather
The National Weather Service in Lincoln has issued a weather alert for several counties, including Macomb, Beardstown, and Jacksonville, which are under a marginal risk for severe weather. A cold front moving through the region on Sunday evening will trigger the storms. The most intense weather is expected after sunset on Sunday, with hazards including:
Isolated damaging winds with gusts up to 60 mph
Frequent cloud-to-ground lightning
Heavy rain causing localized flooding
As the storm system moves eastward, the severe weather risk will expand to include Springfield, Decatur, Mattoon, and Champaign by Monday afternoon and evening. The threat remains isolated, but conditions could change rapidly, so residents should stay alert.
What to Expect and Safety Measures
Wind: Expect gusts of up to 60 mph that could cause damage to trees, power lines, and outdoor structures. Some power outages are possible, and travel may become hazardous due to debris on the roads.
Lightning: Frequent cloud-to-ground lightning will increase the risk of fires and outages. Stay indoors and avoid using electrical appliances during storms.
Heavy Rain: Downpours could lead to water ponding on roads, creating hazardous travel conditions, especially during the evening hours. Brief flash flooding may occur in areas with poor drainage.
Travel Impact and Safety Tips
Travel Hazards: Storms may cause reduced visibility due to heavy rain and flooded roads. Travelers should be cautious and avoid driving during the heaviest rain. Power outages could also affect traffic signals.
Outdoors Safety: Secure outdoor objects that could become projectiles during strong winds, and stay indoors during the storm. If you need to go outside, stay away from tall trees and open fields.
Stay Informed: Charge your mobile devices ahead of time in case of power outages. Keep up with weather updates for any changes in the storm’s intensity or path.
