Chicago, Illinois – Commuters across northern Illinois face a fast-developing severe weather threat this evening, with storms capable of producing tornadoes and destructive hail arriving as early as 5 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, multiple waves of thunderstorms are expected this afternoon through tonight, with the greatest severe risk between 5 p.m. and midnight. Storms moving east-northeast at nearly 45 mph could rapidly intensify, especially along and north of the I-88 corridor, including Rockford, Elgin, and the northern Chicago suburbs.
The highest threat zone includes areas near the Wisconsin border, where hail up to 2 inches in diameter and strong tornadoes are possible if storms fully develop. In Chicago and surrounding areas, including Joliet and Kankakee, damaging wind gusts and localized flooding remain the primary concerns as repeated rounds of heavy rain move through.
Major routes like I-90, I-94, and I-290 could see sudden visibility drops and water-covered roads during peak travel hours. Emergency managers urge residents to move indoors at the first sign of thunder and have multiple ways to receive warnings, especially overnight.
Storm timing remains somewhat uncertain, but conditions could escalate quickly this evening. Additional watches and warnings are likely as storms begin to organize.
