Chicago, IL – Severe spring storms are poised to hit northern Illinois through Sunday night, bringing threats of tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds up to 75 mph. The National Weather Service has issued a Level 2 tornado risk and Level 3 wind and hail risk across the region, including Chicago and surrounding counties.
According to the National Weather Service in Romeoville, the greatest storm activity will occur into late Sunday evening, with all severe weather modes possible—hail up to 2 inches in diameter, intense lightning, and rapid wind gusts. Motorists traveling along Interstate 55 and I-90 should be prepared for sudden weather changes and poor visibility. Residents are urged to secure outdoor items and have weather radios or alerts activated in case of severe warnings.
Spotters may be needed through late Sunday afternoon, and the storms are expected to shift northeast at 50 to 60 mph. Conditions may briefly calm Monday afternoon before a second wave of thunderstorms returns Tuesday night into Wednesday, with a renewed Level 3 risk for severe thunderstorms and a limited flooding risk.
Extended Forecast – Chicago Area (March 31–April 5):
- Monday: Cloudy with chance of snow showers, high near 40°F.
- Tuesday: Partly sunny early, then rain and breezy conditions return, high 43°F.
- Wednesday: Thunderstorms likely with heavy rain, high 69°F.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high 58°F.
- Friday: Cloudy with showers possible, high near 61°F.
