High winds, tornadoes reported in central Illinois

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Strong storms have hit central and eastern Illinois with heavy rain and high winds. Officials say the storms may have included a pair of tornadoes, but the heaviest damage appears to be from high winds in the Springfield area.

The (Springfield) State Journal-Register reported early Wednesday that power poles were down along Illinois 104 between the town of Auburn and Interstate 55. State transportation officials say Illinois 104 is closed because of the downed lines.

In Piatt County in eastern Illinois, emergency management coordinator Jim Donaldson says two apparent tornadoes were reported near the communities of Cerro Gordo and Pierson. The only reported damage was a toppled grain bin.

The National Weather Service says tornado watches continue through early afternoon for much of central Illinois.