Chance of Severe Storms in Chicago on Thursday

Forecasters warn of potential for damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Chicagoland is under a Marginal Risk for severe storms on Thursday as a new storm system approaches the area. While the overall threat appears low, meteorologists say the conditions could come together to produce isolated damaging wind gusts, hail, and even a tornado in the afternoon and early evening hours.

Why it matters

Severe weather can pose a significant threat to public safety, causing property damage and potential injuries or loss of life. This forecast highlights the need for residents to stay weather-aware and prepared to take shelter if warnings are issued.

The details

The Storm Prediction Center has placed most of the Chicago metro area under a Marginal Risk for severe storms on Thursday, which is a level 1 out of 5. The far southern portions of Newton and Jasper Counties in Indiana are under a Slight Risk, a level 2 out of 5. Meteorologists say that while the overall threat appears low, if the conditions align just right, the region could see isolated incidents of damaging wind gusts, hail, and even a tornado.

  • Increasing cloud cover is expected Thursday morning.
  • Showers and storms are possible Thursday afternoon through early evening as the storm system approaches.
  • Much colder air will move in Thursday night and Friday, with highs only reaching the mid-40s on Friday.

The players

Emily Wahls

Fox Chicago Chief Meteorologist who provided the forecast information.

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What they’re saying

“While the overall threat for severe storms appears low, if all the elements come together just right, we could be at risk of isolated damaging wind gusts, hail, and possibly even an isolated tornado Thursday afternoon through early evening.”

— Emily Wahls, Fox Chicago Chief Meteorologist (fox32chicago.com)

What’s next

Residents should monitor the weather forecast closely on Thursday and be prepared to take shelter if any severe weather warnings are issued for their area.

The takeaway

This forecast serves as a reminder that severe weather can strike even in the middle of winter, underscoring the importance of staying weather-aware and having an emergency plan in place.