Thunderstorm Wind — Richland, Illinois

2021-10-11 · near Olney, Richland, Illinois

Event narrative

Numerous trees and large tree branches were blown down across Olney, including some that fell onto houses and cars. One falling tree clipped part of the roof and brick facade of an apartment complex on Main Street.

Wider weather episode

Low pressure lifting northward through the Illinois River Valley triggered a line of strong to severe thunderstorms during the afternoon and early evening of October 11th. With the low in close proximity, ample environmental wind shear led to numerous circulations developing within the line of convection. Four weak tornadoes touched down as the storms passed, causing minor damage across portions of Morgan and Woodford counties. In addition, isolated cells ahead of the main line produced wind damage. In particular, widespread damage was reported across Olney in Richland County, likely due to downburst winds in excess of 70mph.

View location on OpenStreetMap → (38.7300, -88.0800)

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 988059. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.