ST. LOUIS – The Storm Prediction Center has upgraded the St. Louis Metropolitan area to a Level-4 risk for severe weather Friday, with some Missouri and Illinois counties an hour-plus north at a Level 5 risk on a scale up to five.
A tornado watch is underway through at least 8 p.m. in the St. Louis metropolitan area. There are also chances for thunderstorms and hail.
The potential timeline for severe weather on Friday varies on your location. The most intense storm systems will be rolling in at the following times and areas…
- Noon to 6 p.m.: Troy, Missouri and other nearby areas to the north and west.
- 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.: St. Louis metropolitan area and all counties surrounding St. Louis City and County.
- 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.: Much of the Metro East, including Vandalia, Sparta and nearby communities.
In preparation, Some St. Louis area schools dismissed early Friday afternoon since high winds pose severe weather threats.
St. Louis Public Schools, one of Missouri’s largest school districts, is among the districts dismissing early and cancelling after-school activities.
Click the link below to check on potential school closings or dismissals in your area.
The upcoming round of storms, although not impacting every community, will be capable of destructive winds of 70-80 mph. Even a few strong, long-track tornadoes are possible.
This is a day to remain weather aware and make sure you have your notifications turned on for the FOX 2 Weather app. Meteorologist Chris Higgins will be chasing the storms. Stay tuned to FOX 2’s news app and Facebook page for alerts and live video.
Check FOX 2’s traffic map for real-time updates.