Chicago, Illinois – Parts of Illinois could face destructive hail, damaging winds, or even tornadoes Thursday afternoon if isolated storms develop during peak heating hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, there’s a 30–40% chance for thunderstorms between 2 and 9 p.m. CDT Thursday, especially in northern and central parts of the state. If storms form, they may quickly turn severe, with threats shifting east-northeast through the evening.
Cities across the I-55 and I-57 corridors—including Joliet, Bloomington, and Champaign—should prepare for sudden downpours, brief but strong wind gusts, and possible hail up to quarter-size. Power outages and dangerous travel conditions could follow.
Compounding the threat is a risk of wildfire spread, particularly Friday. Wind gusts up to 40 mph and very low humidity may create conditions ripe for fast-moving grass fires in interior northern and central Illinois. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged.
Residents are urged to monitor local alerts and have multiple ways to receive warnings Thursday afternoon and evening. Severe storm chances remain uncertain, but quick development is possible—and the threat may evolve with updated conditions.
More alerts may be issued as confidence in storm formation increases.
