The Storm Prediction Center has areas southeast of I-55 in an "Enhanced Risk," this is a level 3 of 5 on their severe risk scale. Locations near and along I-55 are in a "Slight Risk" (level 2 of 5), and then north and northwest portions of Chicagoland are in a "Marginal Risk" (level 1/5).

The Chicago area could see strong-to-severe thunderstorms on Sunday, with isolated tornadoes and damaging winds possible.

Severe thunderstorms prompted tornado warnings across the Chicago area on Wednesday, with snow showers expected overnight.

An intense line of thunderstorms moves into Chicago after 1 p.m. The threat of severe weather has increased across Chicago, with the risk of damaging wind, hail, and multiple tornadoes. The threat of severe weather ends by 9 p.m.

National Weather Service weather balloon releases — tracking temperature, pressure and wind speed — have been temporarily suspended in Omaha, Nebraska, and Rapid City, South Dakota, because of staff shortages and reduced at six other sites in the Midwest and Great Plains, according to agency memos.

As ominous clouds loom over the Chicago area, residents are alerted to a Tornado Watch that has been issued for several communities. Anticipated to occur this Wednesday afternoon and evening, a powerful round of storms is predicted,

The current situation places nearly two million individuals at risk, with the Storm Prediction Center categorizing the threat level as a 3 out of 5. Areas such as Peoria, Decatur, and Champaign face the highest risk of strong tornadoes, making it critical for residents to take proactive measures: