Chillicothe Township, Peoria County

06/19/2026

Fyi

Unfortunately we're keeping an eye on ANOTHER storm system for this upcoming Sunday. This system is a bit complicated so we have lots of details to iron out. Here's what we know:

1. It will NOT be as strong as the last system. This storm is quite potent but it will not have the parameters like the last event.

2. We're actually more concerned about flooding from this event. This system will have a lot of moisture to work with and after 1-4" of rain yesterday and 3-8" last week we have a lot of saturated soil. This system will likely bring 2-4" of rain to the north of it's track.

3. A severe potential may develop with this system. This storm will have some decent low-level shear, high moisture and moderate instability. Higher risk will be south of the warm front and close to the low pressure in the triple point. I'm thinking it'll end up traveling in north central IL putting the severe risk from Quincy to Champaign south. Main hazards would be a few tornadoes and strong wind gusts.

4. Timing is rain will push in across northern and parts of central IL Sunday AM, then storms developing and moving into south central and southern IL in the afternoon. Exiting Sunday PM and drying out Monday.

5. Storm anxiety talk: We know you're tired and exhausted from non-stop storms. We know it's been rough. The good news is this event is definitely not like the past few with a lower ceiling. In addition, this will bring in a cold front which will give us a break from the chaos for a bit. In face, next week may be chilly at times even. Let's get through this and then we can get some rest!

Overall this risk of severe weather is lower which is good but there will be a risk likely we suspect. Flooding is a threat though in parts of the state so we do want to be watching that.

Follow for updates folks.

05/04/2026

Future radar shows the leading edge to be near or at Chillicothe region between 7:20 and 8 pm. Keep alert. Mike

04/17/2026

Future radar shows the front moving in between 7pm and 7:30. There will most likely be “gust front” straight line winds ahead of the line of rain/thunderstorms. It is a relatively “thin” line and temps will be much cooler once it passes. I’ll continue to monitor as it gets closer.

03/10/2026

Great Post! The City and Township are partners with CCFD in serving our residents and work closely together to help keep everyone safe. We are lucky to have the volunteers who tirelessly serve the community.

SEVERE WEATHER ALERT

The National Weather Service in Lincoln has placed our region in an Enhanced Risk (Level 3 of 5) for severe weather today, Tuesday, March 10. Current forecasts show two potential rounds of strong storms that could move through the area and produce dangerous conditions.

EXPECTED TIMING
Round 1
Late afternoon through evening
Approximately 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Round 2
Late evening into overnight
After 10:00 PM and continuing into early Wednesday morning

POTENTIAL HAZARDS
Tornadoes
Weather conditions could support a few tornadoes, including the possibility of stronger tornadoes if isolated storms develop ahead of the main line.

Large Hail
Hail larger than 2 inches, roughly the size of a baseball, may be possible with stronger storms.

Damaging Winds
Wind gusts exceeding 60 to 70 mph could occur and may result in downed trees, power outages, and property damage.

Heavy Rain
Some storms may produce heavy rainfall that could lead to localized flooding, especially in low lying or poorly drained areas.

HOW TO PREPARE
Have multiple ways to receive weather warnings such as weather radios, smartphone alerts, or local media updates.

Secure loose outdoor items including patio furniture, trash cans, and other objects that could become airborne in strong winds.

Charge phones and backup batteries in advance of the storms.

Know where your safe place is located. The safest place during a tornado is a basement or an interior room on the lowest level of a structure, away from windows.

Check on neighbors, friends, and family members, especially elderly residents, to make sure they are aware of the weather conditions.

CHILLICOTHE FIRE DEPARTMENT UPDATE

The Chillicothe Fire Department is actively monitoring the weather and preparing for potential storm related calls for service. Our crews are completing equipment and apparatus readiness checks and ensuring communication systems and response resources are ready should severe weather impact our community.

Residents are encouraged to remain weather aware this afternoon and evening. If severe weather develops, avoid unnecessary travel so emergency responders can reach those who may need assistance.

Call 911 for emergencies.
We will continue to monitor conditions and share updates as necessary. Stay safe and stay prepared.

HERE WHEN YOU NEED US.

Chillicothe Police Department
Advanced Medical Transport
Fred Meister Chillicothe Community Firefighters Association

03/10/2026

Consensus is building that there is high potential for some very severe weather in our area late afternoon and early evening. Continue to stay weather aware. We will continue to monitor and advise accordingly. Supervisor Ratcliff

03/09/2026

Stay weather aware tomorrow. We are in the bullseye at this point with the forecast. Looks like we can expect stormy weather late afternoon through the evening with some extending overnight. We will post updates as the front nears us tomorrow.

Conditions are forecast to become favorable for severe thunderstorms by late Tuesday afternoon. If and when storms develop, they will pose a risk for all severe weather hazards, including very large hail and tornadoes. Now is a good time to review your family severe weather plan, and ensure you have multiple ways to receive warnings from the NWS.

03/09/2026

Looks like we are in the bullseye for severe weather tomorrow starting late afternoon throughout the evening. Stay weather aware tomorrow. We will post updates as they occur.

Here are our Key Messages for Tuesday (3/10).

02/26/2026

Mild weather tomorrow but gusty winds and low humidities will create an open burn hazard Friday. Please use common sense and refrain from any open burning. Enjoy the weather and stay safe.

Windy and mild conditions on Friday paired with the ongoing drought will result in elevated fire danger. Avoid open burning and use caution with any outdoor equipment that generates a lot of heat.

02/01/2026

Please keep all of our first responders in your thoughts and prayers but especially this Peoria County Deputy. Best wishes for a full and complete recovery. Our thanks will never be enough for your service to our citizens. Also a huge shoutout to our police and fire departments, they have faced their share of tragedy these last few weeks responding to multiple critical care calls. We THANK YOU for all that you do to keep us safe!

12/20/2025

While today won't be as cool as Friday, a more sustained warming trend will begin early next week. Santa may need to wear shorts on his upcoming trip, with Christmas morning lows in the 50s and highs approaching 70 degrees in some areas.