Kankakee, Illinois – Strong thunderstorms capable of producing wind gusts up to 60 mph could sweep across eastern Illinois overnight, placing several counties near the Indiana border under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 2 a.m. Monday and raising concerns for downed tree limbs and sudden travel hazards along the I-57 corridor.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma, Severe Thunderstorm Watch 56 was issued at 6:40 p.m. EDT and covers Ford, Iroquois, Kankakee, and Livingston counties through the overnight hours. The watch signals that atmospheric conditions support severe storms capable of damaging winds and frequent lightning.
Cities including Kankakee, Watseka, Pontiac, and Paxton sit inside the watch area. Drivers along Interstate 57 and Illinois Route 24 could encounter brief heavy rain and rapidly shifting winds if storms intensify this evening. Local emergency managers warn that isolated power outages are possible if stronger wind gusts topple trees or power lines.
Residents are encouraged to secure outdoor items, charge mobile devices, and monitor weather alerts through the night. If a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued, move indoors immediately and stay away from windows.
The watch remains active until 2 a.m. Monday as storms track across eastern Illinois, and additional warnings could be issued with little notice.
