Heads up, St. Louis and Southern Illinois! A powerful storm system is making its way toward the region, bringing the potential for heavy rain, hail, and strong winds this afternoon and evening. If you’re planning to be out or have any outdoor plans, it’s time to take action. These storms are not only going to be intense, but they could also cause some disruptions, so here’s everything you need to know to stay safe.
What’s Coming Our Way:
Later today, we’re looking at a line of severe thunderstorms that will stretch across the region, thanks to a cold front moving through. The rain will come down hard, possibly all at once, creating localized flooding in some areas, especially in spots that tend to struggle with drainage. Along with the rain, there’s a real possibility of hail, which could range from small, harmless pieces to much larger stones capable of damaging roofs, cars, and windows. The storm will also bring wind gusts of up to 60 mph, making for potentially dangerous conditions outdoors and on the road.
These storms will likely be fast-moving, but their intensity could cause quite a bit of disruption, especially in the St. Louis area and surrounding communities in Southern Illinois. So, while the storm might not last long, it will pack a punch while it’s here.
What to Expect:
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Heavy Rain: One of the biggest risks today is the intense rainfall. While some of us could get a quick soaking, others in flood-prone areas could see streets turning into rivers in no time. For those living or working near rivers or in low-lying areas, be especially mindful of the threat of flash flooding. Roads may quickly become dangerous to drive on, so keep an eye on the conditions as they change. If you’re out driving, be sure to slow down and take it easy during the heaviest rain — it’ll make a big difference in staying safe.
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Hail: The hail threat is no joke. While we don’t know exactly how big it’ll get, there’s a real possibility of large hail, which can cause serious damage to your car, windows, and roof. If you’re caught out when the hail starts, it’s best to seek shelter immediately. It might hurt if you get caught without cover, and your vehicle could get pelted with dents and broken windows.
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Wind Gusts: Winds of up to 60 mph are expected, which could bring down tree branches, power lines, and anything else that’s not anchored down. You’ll want to stay inside or in a sturdy building once the storm hits. The winds could create dangerous driving conditions too, so if you’re on the road, keep your speed low, avoid passing under trees, and drive cautiously in case the wind picks up any debris.
How to Stay Safe:
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Take Shelter ASAP: If you’re outside or driving when the storm hits, your best bet is to find cover immediately. A sturdy building is your safest option, or if you’re on the road, get into your car and keep the windows rolled up to protect yourself from the hail. Don’t try to outrun the storm, as it’s unpredictable.
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Secure Outdoor Items: Before the storm arrives, take a few minutes to bring in anything outside that could blow away in the wind. Things like trash cans, lawn chairs, or toys can easily turn into flying projectiles in these kinds of gusts, and you don’t want to risk damage to your property (or anyone else’s).
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Avoid Driving: The storm’s heavy rain and wind could make driving incredibly dangerous. If you can, stay home or delay travel until the storm passes. If you do need to drive, make sure your wipers are on full speed, keep your distance from other vehicles, and reduce your speed. Don’t drive through flooded areas — it only takes a few inches of water to cause serious problems.
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Stay Away from Windows: The winds and hail could bring debris flying at your house, so stay away from windows or glass doors while the storm is at its peak. It’s safer to stay in a central room or basement, where there’s less chance of being injured by flying glass or debris.
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Be Prepared for Power Outages: High winds and downed trees can lead to power outages, so it’s a good idea to make sure your devices are charged ahead of time. Having a flashlight on hand will also help if the power goes out, and keep extra batteries around just in case. It’s better to be over-prepared than caught in the dark.
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Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local weather updates, especially if you have plans to be out. The storm could develop quickly, so be prepared for sudden changes in the forecast. Set up weather alerts on your phone so you’ll get the latest info as soon as it’s available.
