National Weather Service

A winter weather advisory is in effect for much of central Illinois until Wednesday morning.

An excessive heat warning is in effect through Friday.

Wednesday's rain led to flash flooding in the area.

Heavy rain, frequent lightning, hail and strong winds were also reported.

The National Weather Service says heat index readings of up to 110 is expected through Saturday.

At least five tornadoes have been determined in central Illinois as part of a derecho that moved through the area.

Police say dust from nearby farm fields blew across the interstate and reduced visibility to near zero, resulting in a chain reaction of crashes.

Storms are possible Tuesday night into Wednesday morning.

The National Weather Service climate statistics for winter (defined as December-February) shows some communities snowfall totals more than a foot below normal.

An historical analysis of Christmas snowfall, shown on an interactive map, gives the probability of at least one inch on the ground.