Chicago, Illinois – A Level 2 severe storm risk is forecast Thursday afternoon and evening near and south of US Route 24, affecting areas along I-55 and I-57.
According to the US National Weather Service Chicago, another strong weather system will move across northern Illinois and northwest Indiana Thursday, bringing the potential for thunderstorms at times. Some storms may become severe, particularly in areas highlighted in yellow on the agency’s outlook map, corresponding to a Level 2 risk out of 5.
During the morning hours, isolated thunderstorms are possible primarily southeast of Interstate 55. The stronger window for storm development is expected between approximately 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. CST, when scattered thunderstorms are more likely to form.
If severe storms occur, hazards could include hail, damaging wind gusts, and a tornado threat, especially in communities near and south of US Route 24, including areas south of Chicago toward Kankakee and into northwest Indiana. The average storm motion is projected to move northeast at around 45 mph, which may lead to rapidly changing conditions.
Forecasters note uncertainty remains regarding whether morning storms will develop and how far north any severe storms may extend during the afternoon and evening hours.
Commuters traveling along I-55, I-57, I-80, and connecting roadways Thursday afternoon may encounter heavy rain, lightning, and reduced visibility during stronger cells.
Residents are urged to stay updated through official forecasts at weather.gov/Chicago and have multiple ways to receive warnings if they are issued.
