2 Dead as Tornado, Storm Outbreaks Continue Across US

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Two people were killed and nine injured as a series of intense, tornado-producing thunderstorms struck across northern Illinois and northwestern Indiana late on March 10. The National Weather Service said at least four tornadoes came from just one of the Illinois thunderstorm 'supercells.' Storm chaser Rob McBay spent hours helping with cleanup efforts in a Kankakee, Illinois neighborhood, noting that some houses were completely destroyed. The fatal storms were part of a chain of severe weather stretching across the upper Midwest and Great Plains, with a tornado also reported in South Texas.

Why it matters

The early and intense start to severe weather season raises concerns about the growing frequency and severity of storms, which experts attribute to climate change. This outbreak follows a series of fatal storms last week, highlighting the ongoing threat to public safety and the need for preparedness.

The details

The two deceased were an elderly couple in Lake Village, Indiana whose home was destroyed by a tornado. Trained spotters, storm chasers, law enforcement, and emergency management all reported a tornado on the ground in Kankakee, Illinois for over 30 minutes, causing extensive damage. Hail up to 6 inches in size was also reported, potentially setting a new state record.

• On March 10, a series of intense, tornado-producing thunderstorms struck across northern Illinois and northwestern Indiana late in the evening.
• Around 8 PM CT on March 10, a tornado was observed briefly touching down outside Wheatfield, Indiana.
• From 6:24 PM to 6:59 PM CT on March 10, a tornado was reported on the ground and moving across Kankakee, Illinois.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Storm chaser Rob McBay said he and other chasers are currently en route to Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama to provide ground coverage and live streams, as the severe weather is expected to shift eastward.