Severe Storms, Tornado Threat Expected Across Central Illinois Friday Night

A severe storm system is expected to impact central Illinois and the Chicago area on Friday night, with a significant threat of damaging winds and isolated tornadoes. The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for the region, anticipating gusts up to 70 mph, particularly during thunderstorms that are projected to begin around 10 p.m. and last into Saturday morning. High temperatures will rise to the upper 70s before the storms hit, with conditions calming down for the weekend but still remaining breezy. Residents are advised to prepare for severe weather, including the potential for large hail and damaging wind gusts. The storm is expected to move through the area quickly, with impacts felt across various counties in Illinois and Indiana. Saturday will see a cooldown with lingering gusty winds, but no additional storms are anticipated until later in the weekend.