A severe thunderstorm warning remains in effect for Clay County, Illinois, with damaging winds, large hail and flooding risks.
Residents across Clay County are being urged to take precautions as a severe thunderstorm warning remains in effect Friday evening.
The National Weather Service issued the warning after radar detected a dangerous storm moving through the area with damaging winds, large hail and heavy rainfall capable of causing flash flooding.
As of 4:51 p.m. CDT, meteorologists said the severe thunderstorm was located near Flora and traveling east at approximately 45 mph.
Forecasters warned the storm could continue impacting multiple communities across the county as it moves through southeastern Illinois.
Storm brings hail and damaging wind threats
Officials said the storm is capable of producing dangerous weather conditions that could create damage to homes, vehicles and trees.
Meteorologists warned of ping pong ball sized hail within the storm. Wind gusts could reach up to 60 mph, heavy rain may also lead to localized flash flooding in low lying areas and on roadways.
The National Weather Service stated that people and animals outdoors could face injury risks from the large hail.
Authorities also warned residents to expect possible damage to roofs, siding, windows and parked vehicles due to the severe weather conditions.
Strong winds associated with the storm may also bring down tree limbs and cause additional structural damage in affected communities.
Several Illinois communities impacted
The storm was expected to move through several areas across Clay County during the late afternoon hours.
Flora and Louisville were expected to experience severe weather conditions around 4:55 p.m. CDT. Sailor Springs was forecast to be impacted around 5 p.m. CDT, officials also warned that the storm could affect the Flora Municipal Airport area.
Residents across the warning zone were encouraged to closely monitor local weather alerts and remain indoors until conditions improve.
The warning remained active until 5:30 p.m. CDT Friday evening.
Officials urge residents to seek shelter immediately
Emergency officials advised residents to move to the lowest level of a sturdy building and stay away from windows while the storm passes through the region.
The National Weather Service also highlighted the danger posed by frequent lightning associated with the storm system.
Continuous cloud to ground lightning was reported within the thunderstorm. Forecasters reminded residents that hearing thunder means they are close enough to be struck by lightning, Drivers were urged not to attempt crossing flooded roadways during periods of heavy rainfall.
Safety officials repeatedly warn that flash flooding can develop rapidly during severe storms, especially when intense rainfall overwhelms drainage systems.
Residents in impacted communities were encouraged to remain alert for additional weather advisories as conditions continue developing across the region Friday evening.
Official guidance called for anyone in the storm’s path to move immediately to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. This remains one of the most effective ways to reduce risk during a severe thunderstorm, providing protection from both high winds and lightning.
Emergency preparedness officials continue to remind the public that severe thunderstorm warnings are not routine when one is issued, conditions are already dangerous or rapidly becoming so. Acting quickly, rather than waiting to see how a storm develops, can make a life-saving difference.