"Frequent" lightning is possible with a round of thunderstorms due tonight, and the American Red Cross is reminding us about lightning safety.

Most of Central Illinois is under a severe thunderstorm watch until 7 p.m. Those storms could produce wind, hail, "torrential" rainfall and cloud-to-ground lightning, the National Weather Service said.

Localized flash flooding is possible, added the McLean County Emergency Management Agency.

Lightning from storms last Friday are believed to be the cause of unrelated fires at a senior center and garage in Lincoln, and a barn in McLean.

Lightning strikes kill more people each year than do tornadoes, according to the Red Cross. If someone is struck by lightning, call 911, give first aid until help arrives and check for burns. Lightning strikes also can break bones or cause a loss of hearing or eyesight.

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