Tornadoes Possible In IL As Powerful Cold Front Drops Record Temps

ILLINOIS — While record temps are possible throughout Chicagoland and the state Tuesday, a powerful cold front will flip things a bit starting this evening. According to the National Weather Service, temperatures will drop 20 to 30 degrees over the course of just an hour, with strong northwest winds gusting to 35 to 45 mph.

NWS also said scattered thunderstorms are possible Tuesday night, which could produce severe weather, including destructive hail and a "tornado or two." NWS called large hail, possibly up to 2 inches in diameter, the primary threat.

A brief period of gusts over 50 mph are possible (30 to 40 percent) immediately behind the front. Those winds could be "damaging" and residents should secure loose objects outdoors.

According to NWS, record highs were "highly likely" for Chicago and Rockford, with temperatures in the 67 to 74 degree range for Monday, and 70 to 76 for Tuesday.

Due to the higher temperatures, NWS issued a red flag high fire danger Monday. Strong southerly winds, which will gust over 30 mph at times, along with the record warm temperatures, and very dry conditions will cause any brush fires to spread rapidly and become difficult to control. Officials were asking residents to "exercise extreme caution" in disposing of smoking materials and consider postponing any outdoor burning.

RELATED: Record High Temps, Critical Fire Conditions Expected In Chicago Area