The National Weather Service this afternoon issued a Tornado Watch for the entire Regional Radio listening area until 9pm tonight.

The Weather Service says that a significant severe weather outbreak is possible this afternoon and evening. Damaging winds, very large hail, and strong tornadoes are all possible.

They say that 2 rounds are possible.  South of Interstate 74, severe weather is possible from mid thru late afternoon.  The second round of severe weather is possible between 5pm and 9pm tonight west of a Springfield to Peoria line, and between 7pm and 11pm west of a Champaign to Effingham line which would include the Regional Radio listening area. Areas east of a Champaign to Effingham line could be impacted between 9pm and midnight tonight.

Stay tuned to Regional Radio for watches and warnings instantly as they’re issued by the National Weather Service.