NWS: Severe Weather Possible Tuesday in Central Illinois

Hail and heavy rain may be the biggest threats, with a chance of tornadoes.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The National Weather Service has issued an 'enhanced' risk for severe weather in the Springfield, Illinois area on Tuesday. Meteorologists warn that the storms could bring damaging winds, large hail up to baseball-size, and even the possibility of tornadoes, especially during the late afternoon and evening hours. A second round of storms later in the evening and overnight is expected to bring heavy rain and high winds, but a lower tornado risk.

Why it matters

Severe weather can pose a significant threat to public safety, property, and infrastructure in the region. The NWS is closely monitoring the situation and providing advance warning to allow residents and local authorities time to prepare and take appropriate precautions.

The details

According to Meteorologist Daryl Onton at the National Weather Service in Lincoln, the storms are expected to come in two waves. The first round of storms during the late afternoon and evening hours could produce 'discreet super cells' with all hazards possible, including damaging winds, tornadoes, and large hail up to 2 inches in diameter or baseball-sized. The second round of storms later in the evening and overnight is expected to bring heavy rain and high winds, but a lower tornado risk.

  • The first round of storms is expected during the late-afternoon and evening hours on Tuesday.
  • The second round of storms is expected late-evening and overnight on Tuesday.

The players

Daryl Onton

A meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Lincoln, Illinois.

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What they’re saying

“These storms initially along the warm front we're expecting to be discreet super cells, with all hazards possible — damaging wind, but more notable some tornadoes — possibly significant ones — and large hail.”

— Daryl Onton, Meteorologist (capitolcitynow.com)

“We are looking for a 30 percent or higher chance of severe hail, near and north of I-72. For the most part, that super cellular mode can produce two inch diameter or larger hail.”

— Daryl Onton, Meteorologist (capitolcitynow.com)

What’s next

The National Weather Service is expected to provide another update on the severe weather threat late Tuesday morning.

The takeaway

Residents in central Illinois should closely monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to take shelter if severe storms develop on Tuesday. The potential for large hail, damaging winds, and even tornadoes underscores the importance of heeding weather warnings and having a safety plan in place.