SOUTHERN ILLINOIS — A line of severe thunderstorms slammed the listening area Friday night and Saturday, causing widespread damage and power outages throughout the region.

The Washington County Board has issued a disaster declaration following storms that battered the county Friday night.

Downed trees and power lines resulted in widespread power outages in Washington County that stretched from Friday night and into Sunday, with Ameren projecting full restoration of service by Monday.

Multiple roads were also blocked due to debris and some structural damage has been reported.

In the wake of the storms and power outages, the campground showers at the Washington County State Lake have been opened for use by the public.
The park is open to the public through 10 p.m. nightly.

In response to flood damage and power outage from the storms, Kaskaskia College Nashville Education Center will be closed and all scheduled activities canceled through Wednesday.

Areas in Marion and Clinton Counties also suffered damage and power outages due to high winds and heavy rainfall Friday night.

Another system hit the area Saturday, causing a partial collapse of the Dreamality Gym on South Poplar in Centralia.

Three people were temporarily trapped inside the building but were able to safely escape through a side door before first responders arrived.

Downed trees and power lines were reported throughout Centralia, Central City and Wamac, causing road blockages, power outages, and some structural damage, as well as keeping police and ESDA workers busy.