Severe Weather Threat Looms Over Chicago Area

High winds, large hail, and possible tornadoes expected Tuesday afternoon through overnight

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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A severe weather threat is looming over the Chicago area, with the risk of high-impact winds, large hail, and possible tornadoes beginning Tuesday afternoon and lasting through the night. According to NBC 5 Storm Team Meteorologist Iisha Scott, potentially severe storms could start around 4 or 5 p.m. and continue through the evening before subsiding early Wednesday.

Why it matters

The Chicago area faces an elevated risk of destructive weather, including tornadoes, large hail, and flash flooding, especially in communities south of Interstate 80. Residents should be prepared to take shelter and heed any warnings issued by local authorities.

The details

While large hail and flash flooding are possible across central and northern Illinois, the greatest threat is for areas south of I-80, including Kankakee, Pontiac, Bloomington, Springfield, and Champaign. These communities face an increased risk of tornadoes, destructive winds over 70 mph, and hail exceeding 2 inches. Storms are expected to move east-northeast at 30-40 mph.

  • Severe storms could begin around 4-5 p.m. on Tuesday and continue through the evening.
  • The main threat for tornadoes exists mainly well south of I-80.
  • Storms are expected to subside early Wednesday morning.

The players

Iisha Scott

NBC 5 Storm Team Meteorologist who provided the forecast and details on the severe weather threat.

National Weather Service

Placed the Chicago area under a "moderate" flood risk and listed parts of Illinois as a Level 3 out of 5 severe weather risk.

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What they’re saying

“All severe hazards, including tornadoes, large to destructive hail, damaging winds, and flash flooding are possible. The main threat for tornadoes exists mainly well south of I-80.”

— NWS Chicago (Twitter)

What’s next

Commuters who are typically on the road between 4 and 6 a.m. on Wednesday will likely encounter storms moving through the area.

The takeaway

Residents in the Chicago area, especially those south of Interstate 80, should closely monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to take shelter if severe storms develop. This threat highlights the importance of being weather-aware and having a plan in place to stay safe during dangerous weather conditions.