Chicago, Illinois – Drivers along and south of Interstate 80 have a narrow window this evening to prepare as fast-moving severe storms threaten to shut down travel with 70 mph wind gusts and hail larger than 2 inches through 11 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Chicago and Lincoln, a Level 3 out of 5 severe weather risk is in place, with the most intense storms developing between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. and racing east at 50 to 60 mph. The highest threat zone stretches from Pontiac to Kankakee and into northwest Indiana, with impacts extending toward Joliet and the southern Chicago suburbs.
Storms in this corridor may produce hail exceeding 2 inches in diameter, capable of damaging vehicles and roofs. Wind gusts between 70 and 75 mph could snap tree limbs and knock out power to thousands. A brief tornado cannot be ruled out, especially in east-central Illinois before sunset.
I-55, I-57, and I-80 are key concern areas where sudden visibility drops and debris could halt traffic. Illinois Department of Transportation officials urge drivers to avoid cruise control, increase following distance, and never drive through flooded roadways.
Residents should move indoors at the first sound of thunder and keep multiple ways to receive warnings. Charge devices now and secure loose outdoor items before storms arrive.
The threat diminishes after 11 p.m., but additional alerts may be issued if storms intensify or redevelop this evening.
