Chicago, IL – A tornado watch remains in effect for northern Illinois, including the Chicago metropolitan area, until 8 p.m. EDT Sunday, March 30, 2025. The watch area covers regions home to more than 10 million people as severe storms threaten to bring damaging winds, large hail, and possible tornadoes.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, the greatest risk includes widespread wind gusts up to 70 mph and scattered hail reaching ping pong ball size. A few tornadoes are also possible within the watch zone, which stretches across northern Illinois, northern Indiana, and into parts of southwestern Michigan.
Communities under alert include Chicago, Kankakee, Benton Harbor, South Bend, Fort Wayne, and Logansport. School districts and hospitals across the region are advised to review emergency procedures. Nearly 3,000 schools and over 180 hospitals are within the potential impact zone.
Residents are urged to stay weather-aware throughout the afternoon and evening. Secure outdoor items, charge mobile devices, and identify the safest location in your home or workplace. If a warning is issued, seek shelter immediately in a basement or interior room away from windows.
The tornado watch (#71) is expected to expire by 8 p.m., but conditions could change rapidly.
