Tornado Warning Issued for Richland and Clay Counties in Illinois Until 8:30 PM CDT

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Lincoln, IL has issued a Tornado Warning for central Richland County in southeastern Illinois and southeastern Clay County in south central Illinois. This is an immediate threat based on radar-indicated rotation.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions:

• Central Richland County in southeastern Illinois
• Southeastern Clay County in south central Illinois
• Specific locations include Olney and areas near the Olney Noble Airport.

What You Should Do

TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid all windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter immediately to protect yourself from flying debris.

Note that tornadoes are extremely difficult to see and confirm at night. Do not wait to see or hear the tornado. Take shelter immediately.

Expected Conditions

At 7:59 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located near Olney Noble Airport, or near Olney, moving northeast at 45 mph.

• Hazard: Tornado
• Source: Radar indicated rotation
• Impact: Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur, and tree damage is likely.
• Hail: Potential for hail up to .75 inches.

Timeline

• Issued: 8:00 PM CDT, March 15
• Effective: 8:00 PM CDT
• Expires: 8:30 PM CDT, March 15
• Storm Tracking: The storm was expected to be near Olney around 8:05 PM CDT.