Rockford, IL – Severe storms capable of producing tornadoes and damaging winds are expected to intensify across northern and western Illinois through the evening hours.
According to the Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch 89 now includes a wide stretch of Illinois counties until 8 p.m. CDT, covering areas from Rockford and DeKalb south through Peoria and west to the Quad Cities. This includes key population centers along the I-88 and I-80 corridors, where conditions are favorable for rotating storms.
Forecasters warn that a few tornadoes are possible, including the chance for stronger tornadoes, along with wind gusts up to 75 mph and hail up to 2 inches in diameter. Cities such as Rockford, Moline, Peoria, and Galesburg are all in the highest risk zone as storms build eastward.
Travel could quickly become dangerous on major routes including Interstates 39, 74, and 88, with sudden downpours, strong crosswinds, and rapidly changing visibility.
Residents are urged to stay alert through the evening and be ready to take shelter immediately if warnings are issued. Have multiple ways to receive alerts, especially during peak storm hours.
The tornado watch remains in effect until 8 p.m., with additional warnings likely as storms develop and move across Illinois.
