Wheaton, IL – Northern Illinois faced a series of severe storms on Saturday evening, resulting in four EF-0 tornadoes that caused significant damage in several communities. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the tornadoes impacted Elburn, Wheaton, Glen Ellyn/Lombard, and Oak Brook/Downers Grove, with notable damage reported at Morton Arboretum and Wheaton-Warrenville South High School.
The first tornado, classified as EF-0, touched down west of downtown Elburn at approximately 10:37 p.m. The tornado, which had peak winds of 75 mph, traveled 2.3 miles before dissipating just west of La Fox. Concentrated tree damage was observed near Anderson Road, with additional pockets of damage scattered along the tornado’s path.
At 11:02 p.m., an EF-0 tornado struck Wheaton, beginning near Wheaton-Warrenville South High School. The tornado tracked through the south side of Wheaton, causing extensive tree damage along its 4.9-mile path. The tornado lifted shortly after entering the Morton Arboretum, where it also caused minor damage to signs and other property. Peak winds for this tornado were estimated at 80 mph.
A third EF-0 tornado developed in Glen Ellyn/Lombard at 11:08 p.m. This brief tornado produced a narrow corridor of minor damage to trees and residences in the Butterfield West subdivision before lifting near Butterfield Elementary School. The tornado’s path length was 1.2 miles, with peak winds of 70 mph.
The final tornado of the evening occurred at 11:13 p.m. near Fairview Avenue and 38th Street in Oak Brook. This EF-0 tornado moved southeast through Downers Grove, affecting multiple neighborhoods and damaging numerous trees and roofs. The tornado traveled 0.9 miles before dissipating near Westmont, with peak winds of 80 mph.
In addition to the tornadoes, the severe storms brought heavy rainfall and strong winds to the region. Some areas received up to five inches of rain, leading to flash flooding and hazardous road conditions. Straight-line wind damage was also reported, with numerous trees and power lines downed.
According to the NWS, the storms were part of a larger weather system that moved through northern Illinois, producing a corridor of severe weather from central Kane County through southeast DuPage County. The agency emphasized the importance of having a weather safety plan in place and remaining vigilant during severe weather events.
Authorities continue to assess the damage and provide assistance to affected communities. Residents are urged to report any damage to local officials and stay informed through reliable weather updates.
