Central Illinois under Severe Thunderstorm Watch

Updated August 13, 2026 at 1:27 p.m.

Central Illinois is under Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 7 p.m. Hail, damaging wind gusts, and heavy rainfall are expected. 

Updated August 12, 2026 at 1:30 p.m.

Updated August 12, 2026 at 9:46 a.m.

The National Weather Service is predicting another round of strong storms to move into Central Illinois and continue until the afternoon today. However, IPM News meteorologist Andrew Pritchard says he is not “terribly concerned for now” noting that it looks like the strong storms are headed more towards the Chicago area as opposed to Central Illinois. 

Updated August 11, 2026 at 4:00 p.m.

The Champaign-Urbana area is under Severe Thunderstorm Warning until 4 p.m.

Updated August 11, 2026 at 2:11 p.m.

In the latest update, the National Weather Service says strong storms are making their way to Champaign this afternoon. Chance of a tornado is minimal, but strong wind gusts and hail are expected.

Updated August 11, 2026 at 9:45 a.m.

Champaign County and other parts of Central Illinois are under Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 2 p.m. today. IPM News meteorologist Andrew Pritchard says main concerns are strong wind gusts that could knock down power lines and trees. “Power outages are the primary concern where the strongest storms track,” he added in a Facebook post. Tornadoes are also possible. 

In addition, the National Weather Service reports that extreme heat and humidity will continue throughout the week. 

Updated August 10, 2026 at 3:12 p.m. 

Central Illinois residents should be prepared for the risk of severe storms starting later this evening and lasting until Tuesday. Flooding and strong winds are possible, according to the National Weather Service. The beginning of the week is also expected to be hot and humid with temperatures as high as 99 degrees. 

IPM News

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