Severe Storms, Tornado Watch Hit Chicago, Southern Wisconsin

The Chicago area is under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 8 p.m. as a line of strong storms develops earlier than expected, with the potential for damaging winds up to 60 mph, heavy rain, and possible tornadoes. Severe weather warnings also extend into southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois, with tornado warnings issued for parts of Wisconsin and severe thunderstorm warnings for Illinois counties. The National Weather Service highlights a slight risk for severe weather across Chicago, emphasizing the chance of isolated tornadoes and localized flash flooding. Alongside the storm threat, the region is experiencing an air quality alert due to high ozone levels amid hot and very humid conditions, which make temperatures feel like the mid-90s to 100 degrees. Temperatures are forecasted to drop to the low to mid 70s by Thursday, but storm chances will continue into the weekend. Overall, residents should prepare for severe storms and poor air quality through the evening, with ongoing risks for severe weather in the coming days.