Chicago, Illinois – A tornado watch has been issued for the entire Chicago area on Tuesday afternoon, with meteorologists cautioning residents about the potential for significant tornadoes as part of a severe weather outbreak.
The National Weather Service has extended the tornado watch to include the entire NBC 5 viewing area in northeastern Illinois and northwest Indiana. Severe thunderstorms are predicted to hit the region in the evening hours ahead of a swiftly moving cold front, bringing with them the threat of tornadoes, damaging hail, and strong winds.
The Storm Prediction Center has elevated the entire Chicago area to an “enhanced” risk of severe weather, with the possibility of gusts reaching up to 60 miles per hour and hail up to two inches in diameter. Forecasters are also warning of the likelihood of significant tornadoes forming as the intense thunderstorms develop on Tuesday evening, especially along and south of Interstate 80.
In addition to the tornado threat, heavy downpours and gusty winds are expected to affect the entire region, potentially reaching speeds of up to 60 miles per hour. The “enhanced” risk area is anticipated to experience the most severe hail, with diameters of two inches or more.
As the storms move out of the area late in the evening, temperatures are expected to plummet significantly, dropping into the 30s overnight and eventually dipping into the 20s by Wednesday morning. There is also a possibility of accumulating snow as a low-pressure system exits the area, with the heaviest snowfall expected west of Chicago due to high moisture levels and earlier cooling temperatures.
Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and safety precautions as the severe weather conditions continue to unfold throughout the evening.