Tornado Watch Issued for Chicago Area, Significant Tornadoes Possible: National Weather Service
The entire Chicago area is on high alert as the National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for Tuesday afternoon. Forecasters are warning residents of the potential for “significant” tornadoes as part of a severe weather outbreak. This watch includes the entire NBC 5 viewing area in northeastern Illinois and northwest Indiana.
Tornado warnings have already been issued for eastern Lee County and northwestern LaSalle County, with the warning remaining in effect until 6:45 p.m. The storm, located over Sublette, is moving to the northeast at approximately 15 miles per hour. Radar indicates rotation within the cell, which prompted the issuance of the warning. Residents in the impacted areas are urged to seek shelter immediately.
Another tornado warning has been issued for east-central DeKalb County until 7:15 p.m. A severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located near DeKalb as of 6:22 p.m., moving to the northeast at 20 miles per hour. Like the previous warning, radar indicated rotation within the cell, leading to the issuance of the warning. The cell is expected to be near Maple Park at approximately 6:40 p.m.
In addition to the tornado warnings, a severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for DeKalb and Kane counties. Ping pong ball-size hail and wind gusts in excess of 60 miles per hour are possible within this area. The warning is set to last through 7:15 p.m.
The Chicago area is facing severe thunderstorms in the evening hours ahead of a fast-moving cold front. Tornadoes, damaging hail, and gusty winds are all expected as part of these storms. The Storm Prediction Center has upgraded the entire Chicago area to an “enhanced” risk of severe weather. Gusts up to 60 miles per hour and hail up to two inches in diameter are possible, along with the possibility of “significant” tornadoes.
Intense thunderstorms are expected to develop Tuesday evening, with the main threat for tornadoes likely developing along and south of Interstate 80. The National Weather Service warns of heavy downpours and gusty winds, which could impact the entire region. Wind gusts could reach upwards of 60 miles per hour, potentially causing damage to tree limbs, power lines, and unsecured objects outside.
The “enhanced” risk area is expected to see the worst of the hail, with diameters of two inches or more. The storms are forecasted to push out of the area by late evening. Afterward, temperatures are going to drop considerably, falling into the 30s overnight and into the 20s by Wednesday morning.
As the low-pressure system departs the area, there is a chance of accumulating snow. Heaviest accumulations are expected west of the Chicago area due to ample moisture and cooler temperatures. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather alerts and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this severe weather outbreak.
