Just as many people are getting ready to head out the door for work or school, a powerful line of thunderstorms is sweeping across southern Illinois and southwestern Indiana, putting the region at serious risk. The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for multiple counties on both sides of the state line, warning that winds up to 60 mph, large hail, and possible flash flooding could bring major disruptions — all before 9 a.m.
This is a fast-moving and potentially destructive system that could snap tree limbs, damage power lines, and make morning travel treacherous, especially in rural and low-lying areas. If you’re in this region, you need to act now: stay indoors, secure anything outside, and keep weather alerts enabled on your phone.
Counties in the Storm’s Path
Here are the counties currently under the Severe Thunderstorm Watch:
In Illinois:
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Alexander
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Gallatin
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Hardin
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Johnson
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Massac
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Pope
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Pulaski
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Saline
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Union
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Williamson
In Indiana:
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Posey
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Spencer
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Vanderburgh
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Warrick
These counties lie right in the heart of a volatile atmosphere where high moisture levels and warm air are fueling storm development.
What’s Heading Your Way: Wind, Hail, and Sudden Flooding
Here’s a breakdown of the risks with this storm system:
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Damaging Wind Gusts (up to 60 mph): These winds are strong enough to take down tree limbs, power lines, and even damage siding or rooftops.
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Large Hail: Hailstones could crack windshields, dent vehicles, and cause harm to crops and outdoor animals.
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Heavy Rainfall and Flash Flooding: With already-saturated ground in parts of the region, additional rain could quickly lead to flooded roads, fields, and underpasses.
This kind of weather is especially dangerous during the morning commute, when roads are crowded and visibility may be reduced.
Here’s What You Should Be Doing Right Now
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Take shelter indoors, preferably in a central room away from windows.
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Charge your phone and any battery-powered lights or emergency devices — power outages are possible.
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Avoid unnecessary travel during the height of the storm. If you must drive, never attempt to drive through floodwater.
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Move or secure loose outdoor items that could become wind-borne hazards.
Emergency officials are reminding residents that storm systems like this one can escalate rapidly — especially with the potential for hail and flooding. Don’t wait for a warning siren to take action.
What Happens After 9 a.m.?
While the current watch ends at 9:00 a.m., this storm system could leave lingering instability across the region. As temperatures rise later in the day, additional thunderstorm activity is possible, and another round of severe weather can’t be ruled out this evening.
Forecasters are closely monitoring radar trends and may issue more warnings depending on how the atmosphere develops.
