The National Weather Service [NWS] is warning that a “powerhouse” spring storm system could hit Bloomington-Normal on Friday night. That’s coupled with Friday’s threat of “rapid and erratic fire spread” and a red flag warning.

The storm is expected to hit McLean County sometime between 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. Friday, according to the weather service. We should expect damaging wind gusts up to 80 mph, large hail up to golf ball size, and the possibility of a few tornadoes. 

McLean County is at a Level 4 (out of 5) risk of severe weather, according to NWS.

There’s a red flag warning (increased risk of fire danger) in effect starting at 1 p.m. Friday, due to wind and low relative humidity. The weather service says any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

A wind advisory will also be in effect starting at 1 p.m. Friday. The weather service says gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down, and a few power outages may result. 

“With the storms expected to move faster than 60 mph, you will not have a lot of reaction time available, so make sure you are familiar with your severe weather safety rules ahead of time,” NWS said.