Weather in southwest IL could turn severe, including tornadoes. Here are the details

If you’re heading out this evening, the National Weather Service office in St. Louis recommends you stay plugged in to what’s happening outside.

According to NWS Meteorologist Fred Glass, the biggest potential threat to the metro-east is the possibility of tornadoes, damaging winds and large hail. The forecast notes any storms that develop will be fast moving.

Glass explained a cold front will move through the area that will clash with the unseasonably warm December temperatures — a combination that significantly increases the odds for severe weather, he said.

“We’ve got a pretty strong storm system developing,” Glass said Friday afternoon. “If you walk outside right now, it’s obviously pretty warm for December. Something has to give when that cold air wants to replace that hot air. And associated with that is a severe weather threat.”

Glass said the greatest threat for Belleville and southwestern Illinois is 7-11 p.m.

“The environment is very supportive of severe storms developing. All the conditions are favorable for severe weather this evening. The only question is how many storms and where,” he said.

Glass offered this advice.

“Remain weather alert. Have multiple ways to get weather information. If you have warnings for your area, do not go outside to take pictures and make sure to seek shelter,” he said.

Additionally, the National Weather Service website recommends keeping plugged into the weather forecast as it develops throughout the day and through the evening hours.

“Keep your phone charged, on, and audible overnight to ensure you get woken up (sic) by tornado warnings,” the the weather service advises.

This story was originally published December 10, 2021 at 1:54 PM.