Be Aware: Severe Weather, Tornadoes Possible This Afternoon

We’ve been getting advised over the last few days that there’s a possibility of some severe weather, including a slight risk of tornadoes, for this afternoon. Thankfully, the highest risk for tornadic activity has moved south of our area, but that doesn’t mean we are completely out of the woods.

It seems the main areas of concerned are high winds over 60 mph, which is enough to damage trees and power lines.

From the Joliet Weather Center:

Today will feature a high temperature around 72°, under mostly cloudy skies. Winds will be out of the southwest (eventually shifting westerly), generally ranging between 15-20 mph. Wind gusts will occasionally gust around 30 mph. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are anticipated at times this morning, with storm coverage increasing during the afternoon and evening hours. Some storms may be severe (best chances coming during the afternoon and evening). We are currently included in the Slight Risk category (level 2 of 5) for severe weather. The Enhanced Risk (level 3 of 5) has been shifted further south. The highest concentration of severe weather is anticipated to remain south. The main “wild card” for our area will be the impact of lingering showers and storms this morning, and how that will impact or limit the development of severe weather this afternoon and evening. We will be monitoring this situation closely, and will issue alerts if and when it becomes necessary. Showers and storms should be out of our area by the early overnight hours.