Windy Wednesday, severe storm threat

TONIGHT: A south wind of 10-15 mph, and increasing clouds will keep lows in the upper 60s tonight. There is a slight storm chance after 2 AM in Chariton, Saline & Macon counties. Storms would be isolated and are not expected to be severe.

WEDNESDAY: A few morning showers or t-storms are possible but would be very spotty and mainly west of HWY 63 and north of I-70. These are not expected to be severe. It will be a windy and warm day with highs near 80 and southerly winds of 18-25 mph, gusting as high as 40 mph at times. We will watch for a few storms which could develop in the afternoon. If afternoon storms develop, they could become severe. Areas north of I-70 have the highest risk where large hail, strong wind and a tornado are possible.

EXTENDED: After a warm night with lows in the upper 60s Wednesday night, Thursday looks mainly dry and very warm with highs in the upper 80s and increasing storm chances in the evening. Periods of storms are expected Thursday night through Saturday. We’ll have to watch for the potential of a few strong or severe storms along with heavy rain. A preliminary look at rain through the end of the week indicates 1″ to 3″ possible by Saturday evening. Showers could linger into Sunday morning before we dry out. Highs will be more seasonal this weekend, reaching the low 70s. Please check for updates here and on ABC17 News.