Chicago, Illinois – Strong storms may roll through northern Illinois after 6 p.m. Saturday, with the most severe activity expected northwest of the Fox Valley. Wind gusts capable of snapping tree limbs and localized downpours could impact areas near Rockford, Dixon, and DeKalb before midnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, the highest threat for damaging winds will occur in counties shaded dark green on the threat map, including Ogle, Lee, and parts of Winnebago. These storms may bring lightning and heavy rain through 10 p.m., with non-severe activity continuing overnight across the region.
Drivers in McHenry, Kane, and LaSalle counties should be alert for slick roads and sudden visibility drops during evening travel. Chicago, Joliet, and Kankakee are expected to remain on the edge of the severe threat zone, though scattered showers are still possible overnight.
Residents are urged to move indoors if thunder is heard and secure loose outdoor items. Keep mobile alerts on and have multiple ways to receive warnings as storms could intensify quickly.
The risk for severe weather will diminish after sunset, but storm activity may linger into the early hours of Sunday.
