Chicago, Illinois –Severe thunderstorms packing damaging winds and hail are threatening large portions of northern and central Illinois through 9 p.m. CDT Thursday, prompting a widespread weather watch and increased risk for evening travel disruptions.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, Severe Thunderstorm Watch 540 is in effect for 19 counties, including Cook, DuPage, Kane, LaSalle, McLean, and Peoria. These storms could produce wind gusts up to 70 mph and hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter, especially along I-55 and I-80 corridors.
Cities such as Chicago, Joliet, Kankakee, Bloomington, and Peoria should prepare for rapidly changing conditions during the evening commute. Power outages, downed tree limbs, and flooded roads are possible as storms intensify across urban and rural areas.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, charge devices, and remain indoors as storms approach. Avoid unnecessary travel and stay alert for warnings via NOAA Weather Radio or local alerts.
Storms are expected to weaken after sunset, but additional watches or warnings could be issued as conditions evolve across the Midwest.
