Chicago, IL – Storms developing along the southern Great Lakes may bring isolated damaging wind gusts across northern Illinois, Indiana, and southern Michigan through Tuesday evening.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, damaging gusts between 55 and 70 mph are possible from Chicago to Detroit as thunderstorms fire along a boundary fueled by daytime heating and moderate instability. A severe thunderstorm watch is not expected, but storms may intensify locally, especially near South Bend, Kalamazoo, and Ann Arbor.
These storms are forming along the edge of an upper ridge, where a mix of high moisture and strong winds aloft are creating conditions ripe for short-lived but potent downbursts. Communities including Aurora, Gary, Toledo, and Fort Wayne could see brief power outages, tree damage, or hazardous driving—particularly on I-80/94 and U.S. Route 20.
Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items and monitor local alerts. While the risk is scattered, fast-moving storms may catch drivers off guard during evening commutes.
The severe threat should taper off after sunset. No additional watches are expected unless storm coverage becomes more widespread.
