A tornado watch has been issued for the entire Chicago area and parts of Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin until 8 p.m. Tuesday. NEWS.ORG 32 chief meteorologist Emily Wahls provides insights into the weather forecast for Tuesday afternoon.

Severe Weather Potential

The possibility of severe storms, including hail, damaging wind, and tornadoes, remains high until 5 p.m. The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has upgraded the risk level to Slight Risk (level 2 of 5) in NE Illinois and Enhanced Risk (level 3 of 5) in NW Indiana.

Tornado Risk Assessment

According to the SPC, there is a 5% risk of tornadoes in NE Illinois and a 10% risk in NW Indiana. The National Weather Service (NWS) has highlighted the potential for strong tornadoes in NW Indiana.

Impact on Flight Operations

The risk of severe storms has prompted the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to issue a ground stop at O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport. This measure was implemented due to thunderstorms in the area. The ground stop, which began around 9 a.m., resulted in more than 60 flight cancellations at O’Hare this morning. Delays were anticipated until approximately 5 p.m.

Future Weather Outlook

Temperatures are expected to reach the mid-70s today. Tonight, the area will experience drying conditions, but the possibility of storms will return tomorrow afternoon into the evening. Wednesday’s forecast predicts highs in the upper 70s with mostly cloudy skies. Although there is a chance for severe storms, only a marginal risk is in place for Chicagoland, with damaging wind and hail being the primary concerns.

Conclusion: Stay Informed and Prepared

Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay updated with the latest weather forecasts and warnings. It is crucial to have a plan in place in case of severe weather, including knowing where to seek shelter and staying tuned to local news and weather updates. As weather conditions can change rapidly, it is essential to remain vigilant and take appropriate precautions to ensure safety.

For real-time updates and alerts, download The Local News App to your smartphone.

Sources:

• NEWS.ORG 32
• National Weather Service
• Federal Aviation Administration

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