ATHENSVILLE, Ill. — A tornado was on the ground and moving near Athensville Township, Illinois, in Greene County, the National Weather Service said Thursday night in the midst of a severe storm system.
"To repeat, a tornado is on the ground. TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris," the NWS message said.
The announcement came after numerous counties in the St. Louis area were put under severe thunderstorm warnings Thursday afternoon.
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