Chicago, Illinois – Strong thunderstorms could sweep across northern Illinois late Monday night, bringing a risk of damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes—especially in the Rockford area and points northwest.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, a low-pressure system tracking through the Upper Midwest will push storms into the region after dark on Monday, with the highest risk between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. Tuesday. The greatest threat lies along and north of I-88, where wind gusts over 60 mph and quarter-sized hail are possible. Areas south of I-80 may see scattered showers, but the severe threat diminishes closer to Peoria and Kankakee.
Local agencies urge residents in Winnebago, Boone, DeKalb, and McHenry counties to have multiple ways to receive warnings overnight. Power outages and hazardous driving conditions could impact US-20 and I-39, especially after midnight. Residents are advised to charge devices, secure outdoor items, and avoid unnecessary travel if storms intensify.
The system will gradually weaken as it moves east, but the risk of showers and storms lingers through Wednesday, keeping the region unsettled. Additional alerts may be issued, so stay tuned for updated information from the National Weather Service as storms approach Monday night.
