Overview

• The National Weather Service has issued a Level 3 Enhanced Risk for severe storms across the Midwest, affecting major cities like Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul.
• Tornado Watches are active for McHenry County, Illinois, until 10 p.m., and for 35 counties in Minnesota and 20 counties in Wisconsin until 8 p.m.
• Forecasters warn of storms capable of producing hail over 2 inches in diameter, wind gusts exceeding 75 mph, and EF-2 or stronger tornadoes.
• Thursday’s heat could challenge Chicago’s May 15 record high of 91°F, with unseasonably warm temperatures fueling storm development.
• The severe weather threat is expected to persist Friday afternoon and evening before cooler, calmer conditions arrive over the weekend.