Southwestern Illinois could see more storms, high winds Wednesday. Here are the details
The metro east faces the potential of more severe weather Wednesday.
As of Tuesday afternoon, according to National Weather Service Meteorologist Jared Maples, the ingredients are not present to replicate the devastating tornadoes that slammed the region Friday.
According to Maples, the biggest potential threats to the metro-east are strong winds and a few potential thunderstorms. Wind gusts could reach speeds of 50 mph in areas.
“What I’m looking at right, we do have a pretty good storm system that will rapidly intensify over the central plains,” Maples said. “What’s going to impact us more locally is wind and then the cold front extending southwest of the system.
“The wind itself probably will be the biggest guarantee of what comes through here. Some areas could get 55 mph gusts during the day Wednesday and into the evening. We’re more likely to see those gusts in the afternoon Wednesday once we get more into the warmth.
“I’m still not sure where this will all wind up, but there’s a pretty good indication the entire area will be facing impactful winds.”
Maples added the gusts above 50 mph likely will stay northwest of St. Louis, while the 40-50 mph gusts are more probable for the metro east. He also said thunderstorms are likely, but no threat of tornadoes at this point.
According to the National Severe Storms Laboratory, 50 mph winds and inflict “light structural damage” including roof and siding damage. People who live in mobile homes are especially vulnerable.
“At this point, it does not look like any tornadic activity would be the set up we’d be looking at. We’ll probably have a few thunderstorms but not like Friday. The ingredients we had Friday just aren’t there for this one. We do not have quite the same energy we were working with Friday,” Maples added while noting conditions can change.
NWS Meteorologist Marshall Pfhaler noted the biggest concerns with winds that strong include lifting and moving unsecured outdoor objects, such as holiday directions. He also said weakened tree branches — especially from areas impacted Friday — could be brought down.
“In addition, travel in any high profile vehicles on west-to-east roads will be very difficult since the winds will be strong out of the south,” Pfhaler said, describing high profile vehicles as trucks, semi trucks and possibly some larger SUVs and vans.
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.