Numerous tornadoes touched down in Central Illinois on Saturday night as a weather system worked its way through the state.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, tornadoes were spotted in several Illinois counties, including Christian, Macon, Fulton, and Cass, and while there were no reports of serious damage, it was still an unnerving sight to see on the first day of December.
Amid reports of the tornadoes, Governor Bruce Rauner activated the State Emergency Operations Center, and announced the group will coordinate with charities and agencies to respond to the stormy weather.
"We (will) closely monitor the situation, keep in contact with local officials and quickly mobilize any state assets that may be needed," he said. "If state assistance is needed, we are well-positioned to provide it quickly and efficiently."
One tornado touched down near Stonington, a town 30 miles southeast of Springfield. That tornado reportedly blew over a semi trailer and numerous trees and power lines were knocked down, according to trained weather spotters.
Tornadoes were also spotted in Palmer, located approximately 40 miles south of Springfield, and near Beardstown in Cass County. That tornado reportedly damaged trees and power lines and potentially caused damage to a water plant.
Official word on the strength of the tornadoes, as well as any damage estimates, will emerge in the next few days as the National Weather Service investigates the funnel clouds.
