TORNADO RISK RAISED FOR CENTRAL ILLINOIS THURSDAY

CENTRAL ILLINOIS — Severe storms are expected to develop across Illinois on Thursday, with forecasters warning of an increased risk for tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail.

The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of central and northern Illinois under an enhanced risk, including areas as far south as Springfield and Jacksonville. Forecasters say conditions may allow the atmosphere to become unstable after morning storms move through, setting the stage for dangerous afternoon and evening development.

Meteorologists indicate that discrete supercells could form ahead of an approaching cold front, fueled by strong wind shear and favorable atmospheric conditions. These storms may be capable of producing tornadoes before potentially organizing into larger storm systems later in the day.

A 10 percent tornado risk has been issued across central Illinois, including Jacksonville, Springfield, and areas north of Interstate 72. That risk also includes the potential for strong tornadoes, with forecasters noting the possibility of EF2 or stronger storms if tornadoes develop.

In addition to the tornado threat, a 30 percent risk of damaging winds extends across the same region, raising concerns for widespread wind damage. A 15 percent hail risk is also in place, with the greatest potential for large hail just north of the St. Louis region.

Forecasters warn that storms could move quickly, increasing the potential for long-track tornadoes and making conditions more dangerous as storms track east-northeast

through the evening hours.

Residents are encouraged to stay weather aware throughout the day Thursday and be prepared to take immediate action if warnings are issued.