ILLINOIS — The National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has placed much of Illinois under an Enhanced Risk (Level 3 of 5) for severe weather on Wednesday, June 19, as multiple rounds of thunderstorms are expected to sweep across the region.
The threat spans from southern Illinois and Missouri into Indiana and southern Michigan, with the potential for damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes. The SPC’s latest forecast update confirms the increased likelihood of dangerous conditions forming during the afternoon and evening hours.
What to Expect in Illinois
The SPC has highlighted Illinois as a key impact area due to the following factors:
- Supercells and bowing line segments may bring widespread damaging wind gusts.
- Isolated tornadoes are possible, especially in central and southeastern Illinois.
- Conditions will be driven by a deepening surface low and unstable atmospheric energy combining over the Mississippi and Ohio Valley.
According to the SPC, “supercells capable of all severe hazards (including a tornado threat) may become maximized across parts of IL/IN and lower MI, where backed surface winds will support favorable low-level shear.”
Timing and Impact Areas
- Storm threat window: Afternoon through late evening Wednesday.
- Most at-risk Illinois regions: Southern and central counties, though all residents are advised to monitor local alerts.
- Potential impact: Wind damage to trees, structures, and power lines; localized hail damage; short-notice tornado warnings.
What Residents Should Do
NOAA advises Illinois residents to:
- Have multiple ways to receive warnings, including weather radios and mobile alerts.
- Review emergency plans and know where to take shelter.
- Avoid outdoor activities during the storm window, particularly in high-risk areas.
Are you in the enhanced risk zone? Share your preparedness tips or photos of incoming storms with us at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com. Your updates help keep others informed and ready.
