Large Tornado Strikes Illinois County, Causing Damage

No injuries reported as twister downs trees and power lines in Kankakee County area.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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A large tornado struck south of Chicago in Kankakee County, Illinois, on Tuesday, downing trees and power lines and overwhelming the 911 center with emergency calls, according to officials. The tornado caused major damage on the south side of Kankakee City and traveled northeast into Aroma Park, where it caused further destruction. No injuries have been reported so far.

Why it matters

The severe weather event in Illinois is part of a broader system threatening the southern Plains to the southern Great Lakes, with over 2 million Americans at moderate risk of severe storms, including the potential for intense tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail.

The details

The tornado struck in the Kankakee County area, about 47.5 miles south of Chicago. In video shared on social media, the twister is seen ripping across a field of farmland near an airport, with vehicles lining the road. The storm caused major damage on the south side of Kankakee City and traveled northeast into Aroma Park, where it caused more destruction.

  • The tornado struck on Tuesday, March 11, 2026.

The players

Trooper Jayme Bufford

A spokesperson for Illinois State Police.

Indiana State Police Cpl. Eric Rot

Reported that an apparent tornado hit several houses in Lake Village, Indiana, causing injuries.

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What they’re saying

“We're still in emergency response mode.”

— Eric Rot, Indiana State Police Cpl. (1011now.com)

What’s next

Officials are continuing to assess the damage and respond to the emergency situation.

The takeaway

This severe weather event highlights the ongoing threat of powerful storms and tornadoes in the Midwest, underscoring the importance of preparedness and community resilience in the face of such natural disasters.