(Photo credit: sister station…WTYE )
Wayne County and surrounding areas avoided the worst of Thursday’s severe weather, as storms passed to the north with hail reported in the Effingham area. In Crawford County, authorities reported that a tornado struck the communities of Flat Rock, Hardinville, and New Hebron, south of Robinson that resulted in damage to approximately 12-15 properties, They say that while there have been no reported fatalities, one individual was taken to the hospital for treatment. They continue to ask the public to avoid the affected areas and remind everyone that 1000E from 325N to 450N and 925E from 300N to 350N remain closed as crews work on clean up.
Tornado watches were issued for much of the region Thursday afternoon and evening.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures are expected to cool to more typical seasonal levels heading into the weekend. A stronger blast of cold air early next week will bring temperatures below normal, with only brief, light snow possible and no significant impacts expected. Temperatures should rebound to average by mid-week, with a warming trend likely later in the week.