Lincoln, IL – Central Illinois is on alert as the National Weather Service forecasts a strong to severe thunderstorm threat for this Thursday afternoon through the evening. Conditions are ripe for potentially damaging weather events, including the possibility of golf ball-sized hail, particularly in regions near and west of Interstate 55.
According to the latest severe weather outlook from the National Weather Service in Lincoln, thunderstorms are expected to develop this afternoon, peaking in severity between 3 PM and 9 PM. While storms are anticipated to weaken after sunset, scattered showers may persist overnight, gradually moving east by Friday morning.
The primary threats from these storms include wind gusts capable of causing local damage, hail up to one inch in diameter, and the risk of flooding due to heavy rains, especially in urban areas and regions with poor drainage. Residents are advised to stay alert, secure any loose outdoor items, and be prepared to move to a safe location if severe weather warnings are issued.
Temperatures over the next several days are forecasted to remain warm, with highs ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s and lows in the mid-50s to mid-60s. This active weather pattern is part of a series of disturbances that could bring additional thunderstorms intermittently through the weekend into early next week.
