Photo courtesy of the National Weather Service in Lincoln
EFFINGHAM IL-(Effingham Radio)- Our listening area has a marginal risk of seeing severe weather this afternoon and evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, a cold front is set to move across the area today and will interact with a hot/humid airmass, producing scattered thunderstorms.
There is a marginal risk that these storms could be strong to severe.
The risk includes hail up to an inch and isolated wind gusts of up to 60mph.
Intense lightning will also be a threat.
Additionally, the National Weather Services in Lincoln, St Louis, and Paducah have issued a Heat Advisory until 7pm.
Counties under the heat advisory include Christian, Macon, Moultrie, Douglas, Coles, Edgar, Shelby, Cumberland, Clark, Effingham, Jasper, Crawford, Clay, Richland, Lawrence, Bond, Clinton, Fayette, Marion, Montgomery, Wayne, and Edwards.
Cities included are Taylorville, Decatur, Sullivan, Tuscola, Charleston, Mattoon, Paris, Shelbyville, Greenup, Marshall, Effingham, Newton, Robinson, Flora, Olney, Lawrenceville, Centralia, Salem, Vandalia, and Fairfield.
Highs today with reach the lower 90’s this afternoon with tropical dewpoints in the 70’s bringing heat indices from 100-110 degrees across Central and Southern Illinois.
Photo courtesy of the National Weather Service in Lincoln
This heat and humidity could cause heat stress during outdoor exertion and extended exposure.
The very young, elderly, those without air conditioning, and those taking part in strenuous, outdoor activities will be the most susceptible.
Car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.
Everyone is reminded to never leave children, pets, or the elderly in unattended, parked vehicles.
Residents are reminded to drink plenty of water, wear lightweight and light colored clothing, stay in air conditioned rooms, stay out of the sun, and check on relatives and neighbors.
Also, know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
In the case of heat stroke, call 911.
