Updated at 9:28: The National Weather Service says the tornado threat has ended in Peoria and areas west of the Illinois River. Tornado warnings are also canceled in Tazewell and Woodford counties.
Around 9 p.m., the NWS reported power flashes in Peoria, indicating a likely tornado on the ground. Spotter also visually saw a tornado. Ameren power maps show outages reported off Smithville Road near the Peoria International Airport.
The National Weather Service is forecasting hazardous conditions for Saturday afternoon and evening, with damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes all possible.
The NWS says unseasonably warm and humid air is making conditions ripe for thunderstorms and possible tornadoes.
The main severe weather threat is expected between 2 p.m. and midnight, with possible wind gusts exceeding 60 mph and golf ball-sized hail.
The NWS is encouraging residents to keep an eye out for weather alerts and be prepared to take shelter in the lowest floor available, away from doors and windows.
In a press release, the NWS and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency said sheltering from the storm should take precedence over social distancing practices meant to prevent the spread of COVID-19 — especially for those who rely on community shelters.
“Your first priority should be to protect yourself from a potential tornado,” the release reads. “However, the decision to open a community shelter will ultimately be at the discretion of local officials.”
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