DeKalb, IL — Strong thunderstorms swept across northern Illinois early Friday, bringing nickel-sized hail to parts of DeKalb, Ogle, and Lee counties.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago/Romeoville, radar detected a line of storms around 2:14 a.m. CDT. The storms moved east at 30 mph, impacting communities including DeKalb, Rochelle, Oregon, and Cortland. The weather service issued a Special Weather Statement warning of minor hail damage, particularly to vegetation.
Residents in cities such as Byron, Malta, and Hinckley were also affected, as the storm tracked from Forreston to southeast of Rochelle before pushing further east. Maximum hail size was reported at 0.88 inches with wind gusts remaining under 30 mph.
Authorities advised residents outdoors during the event to seek shelter indoors as a precaution. While no significant damage has been reported, emergency management continues to monitor the situation in case of additional overnight developments.
This round of severe weather arrives as part of a spring pattern shift, with increased thunderstorm activity expected across northern Illinois into the weekend. Residents are encouraged to remain alert and check local forecasts for updates.
