Severe storms leave nearly 1.2 million without power across central U.S. on June 18
Severe storms and isolated tornadoes caused widespread power outages and infrastructure damage across the Central U.S. on June 18, 2025, leaving nearly 500 000 homes and businesses (approximately 1.2 million people) without electricity.
Tornado Damage North of Jacksonville on June 18, 2025. Credit: Ed Glossop
The most significant impacts were reported in Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio, where a powerful convective system produced wind gusts exceeding 100 km/h (62 mph), heavy rainfall, and at least one confirmed tornado.
Utility companies and emergency management agencies reported extensive infrastructure damage, with electricity providers working through the night to restore service to nearly 1.2 million people.
The largest concentrations of outages occurred in Indiana and Illinois. In Jacksonville, Illinois, storm damage included destruction of commercial buildings and power infrastructure, resulting in service loss for approximately 11 700 customers, which is 76 % of the county’s grid.
In Missouri, the National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed an EF‑1 tornado touched down near Clarksville in Pike County at 10:55 local time (LT). The tornado caused damage to at least one home, downed trees, and severed power lines before crossing into Illinois and dissipating four minutes later.
A Tornado Watch was issued for portions of Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana earlier in the day. Several severe thunderstorm warnings followed, with widespread damaging wind gusts recorded, including 108 km/h (67 mph) near Warren Park, Indiana.
The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) received reports of at least 10 tornadoes across four states during the outbreak. The most affected was Illinois, with 7 confirmed tornadoes across Morgan, Cass, Mason, Tazewell, and De Witt counties. A brief landspout tornado occurred near Park View in Scott County, Iowa.
Emergency managers in Morgan County, Illinois, advised residents to avoid storm-damaged areas, particularly on the west side of Jacksonville, due to ongoing hazard from downed power lines and debris. Local officials confirmed structural damage to the Future Champions Sports Complex and nearby residential zones.
By the evening of June 18, restoration efforts were underway, with utility crews working across state lines to reestablish electrical service. The NWS is assessing damage.
References:
1 Tornado damage seen in Ohio Valley as severe storms knock out power to nearly half a million – FOX Weather – June 18, 2025
2 Possible tornado impacts Jacksonville, outages reported in city – My Journal Courier – June 18, 2025
Reet is a science journalist and researcher with a keen focus on extreme weather, space phenomena, and climate-related issues. With a strong foundation in astronomy and a history of environmental activism, she approaches every story with a sharp scientific lens and a deep sense of purpose. Driven by a lifelong love for writing, and a curiosity about the universe, Reet brings urgency and insight to some of the most important scientific developments of our time.
Commenting rules and guidelines
We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules.