Chicago, IL – Dangerous severe storms could erupt across northern and central Illinois late Tuesday, with forecasters warning that conditions favor multiple strong tornadoes, giant hail and destructive winds near the Chicago metro area.
According to the Storm Prediction Center, a Moderate Risk of severe thunderstorms now covers parts of northern and central Illinois into northwest Indiana through early Wednesday morning. This level of risk signals a higher likelihood of significant severe weather, including strong tornadoes rated EF2 or stronger.
The atmosphere across the Midwest is rapidly destabilizing as warm, humid air spreads northward ahead of a low pressure system moving from Kansas toward Illinois. By late afternoon and evening, a strengthening low-level jet and intense wind shear could allow isolated supercells to form near a frontal boundary across north-central Illinois.
Initial storms may produce very large hail exceeding 2 inches in diameter before transitioning into clusters capable of producing damaging winds and tornadoes. The highest tornado risk is expected along and just south of the boundary stretching across northern Illinois into northwest Indiana, including areas near Chicago, Joliet, Aurora and Gary.
Storms may continue expanding eastward overnight into Indiana and the Ohio Valley.
Residents across the Chicago region should review severe weather safety plans now and remain alert for watches and warnings later today as storms develop into the evening hours.
