weather

The National Weather Service in Lincoln opened its doors to the public on Saturday for the first time in 19 years, and wants to be more accessible in the future.

Tazewell, Marshall and McLean counties are also included in the proclamation, which makes additional state resources available to assist response and recovery efforts.

A severe storm system that damaged buildings, downed trees and left thousands without power in Bloomington-Normal on Thursday largely spared the Tri-County region.

The Peoria area and much of Central Illinois is at enhanced risk for severe weather on Tuesday, with 75+ mph wind gusts and a few tornadoes possible.

A line of thunderstorms that swept through Greater Peoria on Thursday evening has left thousands with no electricity service.

Peoria, Tazewell and Woodford counties are facing an enhanced risk of severe weather (Level 3/4 out of 5) for a storm expected to hit between 5 p.m. to midnight Thursday.

Bloomington-Normal and Greater Peoria again avoided the worst of a spring storm system that moved through the area Sunday. A winter weather advisory remains in effect until 1 p.m. Monday.

The National Weather Service is warning of an enhanced risk of tornados and other severe weather on Tuesday night into Wednesday morning throughout Central Illinois.

Peoria Public Schools will be closed again Monday, Jan. 26, due to extreme cold and ongoing concerns for student safety — especially those who walk to school. Schools were closed Friday, too.

All court hearings will be postponed Friday. Traffic and criminal hearings will be rescheduled by mail. Civil proceedings must be rescheduled via email.