ST. LOUIS — Thursday's Derecho, or severe line of storms with heavy downpours, frequent lightning, some hail and numerous severe wind gusts hit areas north and east of St. Louis. The high wind reports with trees and power lines down were mainly in our Illinois counties.
More strong to severe thunderstorms are possible over the next few days. Stay weather aware and have several ways to get warnings.
A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH has been issued until 9 p.m. Saturday afternoon and evening. Large hail up to 2" in diameter is possible and severe wind gusts to 70 miles per hour are the main threats.
A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING has been issued until 2:45 p.m. Saturday for Dent, Phelps, Pulaski, Shannon, and Texas counties. Please get inside away from windows and doors.
PHOTOS: Storm damage, hail in St. Louis area
As of 7:30 p.m., Ameren reported 93,000 customers in Illinois without service and 14,000 in Missouri without service.
When looking at the severe weather potential maps, yellow is level two out of five being the highest potential for severe storms. Scattered severe thunderstorms are possible Friday night.
Saturday, the entire area is in orange, level three out of five or more numerous severe storms are likely.
Sunday the chance for afternoon storms is there, but the severe weather risk should move more east of the metro.
Click here to see all the active weather threats in the St. Louis area.
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SUMMER HEAT SAFETY TIPS
- Never leave a child in a car unattended.
- Bring pets inside or have areas of shade available for them along with plenty of water.
- Hydrate often.
- Use the A.C. and take frequent breaks if you venture outdoors.
- Check on neighbors, family and friends in extreme heat.
- Limit exercise during the hottest time of day (afternoons).