Chicago, Illinois – Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected across parts of Illinois and Indiana today, with damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes possible as a dynamic storm system moves through the region.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Chicago, Central Illinois, and Northern Indiana, periods of showers and thunderstorms will continue through the day, with more intense storms developing this afternoon and into the evening. The Storm Prediction Center has highlighted portions of eastern Illinois and western Indiana under a Slight Risk, with surrounding areas under a Marginal Risk.
Forecasters say the primary threat is damaging wind gusts, with some storms capable of producing hail. A low but non-zero tornado threat exists, particularly east of Interstate 55 in Illinois and across western Indiana, where storm organization may be stronger.
Thunderstorms this morning have already produced heavy downpours, and additional scattered storms are expected later today. The National Weather Service noted that storms could become severe mainly south and east of Chicago, expanding into central and eastern Illinois and western Indiana during the afternoon.
In western Indiana, the severe weather risk was upgraded from marginal to slight, with the most active period expected between roughly mid-afternoon and late evening. Storm motion may be fast, increasing the risk of sudden wind damage.
Residents are urged to remain weather-aware, have multiple ways to receive warnings, and be prepared to seek shelter quickly if storms approach. Officials emphasize that severe weather can develop rapidly, even outside traditional spring storm seasons.
For commuters, students, and workers across Illinois and Indiana, storms may impact late afternoon and evening travel, especially on east–west routes.
Additional updates and warnings will be issued as storms develop.
