Strong to severe thunderstorms, along with high winds and possible tornadoes are expected as the calendar turns from March to April.
The National Weather Service in Paducah is posting a TORNADO WATCH for portions of the region, in effect until 8:00pm CDT. A Wind Advisory runs from from 1pm Friday to 1am Saturday, but forecasters expect storms to accompany those winds during the afternoon and evening hours, as well.
Meanwhile the Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma puts most of Illinois, as well as portions of Missouri, Iowa, and Kentucky in a Moderate Risk for severe storms.
Forecasters say there is a potential for long-track, damaging tornadoes in this moderate risk area.
Emergency management teams are urging people to be ready for severe weather, and have plans in place to take shelter if necessary.
