Tornado Warning Issued for East Central Crawford County, Illinois

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Lincoln has issued a Tornado Warning for east central Crawford County in east central Illinois. This alert is classified as an immediate threat with an observed tornado confirmed by emergency management.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically impacts east central Crawford County. Locations in the path of the storm include Palestine, the Crawford County Airport, and Merom. The National Weather Service indicates the tornadic thunderstorm will remain primarily over rural areas.

What You Should Do

TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris. Mobile homes are at high risk of being damaged or destroyed.

Expected Conditions

At 4:39 PM CST, a confirmed tornado was located over Palestine, or 8 miles east of Robinson, moving east at 40 mph. Hazards include a damaging tornado and ping pong ball size hail (up to 1.50 inches). Expected impacts include dangerous flying debris, damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles, and likely tree damage.

Timeline

The Tornado Warning is effective immediately as of 4:39 PM CST on February 19. The alert is scheduled to expire at 5:15 PM CST.