A Tornado Watch is in effect until 8 p.m. CDT on Wednesday for parts of southern Illinois, southern Indiana, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri.
Fast-developing storms are expected to bring damaging winds, large hail, and the possibility of isolated tornadoes.
Severe Weather Threat Across the Region
The National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center warns that storms are likely to intensify along a boundary stretching from Fort Campbell, Kentucky, to northeast of Evansville, Indiana.
These storms could produce dangerous wind gusts up to 75 mph and hail as large as 2 inches, especially during the late afternoon and early evening hours.
At-Risk Areas in Indiana, Kentucky, and Illinois
In Indiana, residents from Evansville to Jasper are urged to stay alert as the storm system tracks eastward. In western Kentucky, communities including Paducah and Hopkinsville could experience severe wind damage, with the risk of downed power lines.
Southern Illinois cities such as Marion and Carbondale are also at risk, with high winds making travel on highways like I-57 and I-24 hazardous. Southeast Missouri towns, including Poplar Bluff and Sikeston, should prepare for rapid storm development and possible tornadoes.
Safety Tips and Precautions
For those in affected areas, it’s crucial to charge your phones and secure any outdoor objects that could be blown away by strong winds.
Local authorities strongly recommend avoiding travel during severe storm warnings. As tornadoes can develop quickly, it’s essential to stay tuned for updates from local weather stations and emergency services.
Ongoing Threat and Warnings Possible
The storm system is expected to evolve through the evening, and additional warnings for severe weather or tornadoes are possible as conditions change. Stay informed and be prepared to take action if necessary.
