By WMBD TV
(PEORIA, Ill.) — Severe thunderstorms are likely to impact Illinois on Monday, April 26th as a strong storm system moves across the region.
Confidence continues to increase that the local area avoids the worst impacts from today’s storms. The biggest issues should remain south Interstate 72 today.
Severe storm outlook
The Storm Prediction Center has downgraded our area a Level 2 Risk (Slight Risk). The morning round of storms acts as a saving grace, limiting the coverage and extent of late day storms. The most significant storms are expected downstate. A Level 3 and 4 Risk is in place downstate. That said, all hazards are in play with storms that redevelop this afternoon and evening.
Storm timing
The first round of storms rolled through with very heavy rain and embedded pockets of strong wind. An outflow boundary sitting closer to I-70 will serve as a trigger for more intense severe storms this afternoon and evening. Locally, the best chance for additional storms will be 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. All hazards are in play, including a few tornadoes.
Rainfall forecast
Widespread rainfall amounts of 1-3 inches are likely for much of central Illinois. Localized pockets of 3-5 inches are possible where training thunderstorms occur, which right now seems more likely along and south of I-72. Where this heavy rain falls flash flooding will be possible.
The original story can be found online at CIProud.com.
