Kankakee, Illinois – A tornado watch is in effect across parts of eastern Illinois until 7 p.m. Wednesday as severe storms threaten multiple counties with damaging winds and possible tornadic activity.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch 434 includes Ford, Grundy, Iroquois, Kankakee, Livingston, and Will counties. The alert was issued just before noon as unstable conditions across the region increase the potential for rotating storms through the evening hours.
Residents in towns such as Kankakee, Bourbonnais, and Dwight should remain weather-aware and be prepared to take cover quickly if warnings are issued. Highway travelers along I-57 and I-55 should stay alert for fast-changing weather and low visibility. Outdoor activities and afternoon commutes could be disrupted by strong wind gusts, hail, and rapid storm development.
Emergency managers urge residents to have multiple ways to receive warnings, keep phones charged, and identify safe shelter locations now. Schools and summer programs may need to adjust afternoon dismissal plans depending on local storm activity.
This tornado watch remains active through 7 p.m., but additional watches or warnings are possible if storm activity intensifies or spreads.
