Severe weather alert: Wind advisory and red flag warning active for Southeast Missouri and surrounding areas

The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory until 7 p.m. for the area, with wind gusts of up to 55 mph predicted.

"Winds of this magnitude will be a travel hazard, especially on east/west oriented roads," the NWS reported in its afternoon briefing. "Tree limbs may be knocked down and some trees may be uprooted. Power outages will be possible, as well."

Southeast Missouri, southern Illinois, western Kentucky, and southwest Indiana will all be impacted by this.

A red flag fire danger warning is also in effect until 8 p.m. for all of Southeast Missouri.

Thunderstorms are a possiblity for most of the area going into the evening. They are expected to develop ahead of a cold front after 3 p.m.

"The coverage and southern extent of thunderstorms is uncertain at this time, but whatever does develop will exit the area by 8 p.m.," the NWS reported. "Severe storms will be most likely along the I-64 corridor and southward into northwest Kentucky."

Damaging winds will be the primary storm hazard, but large hail will be possible and a tornado cannot be completely ruled out, the NWS said. Heightened danger of severe weather is mostly located east of the Mississippi River.