Heat Wave In IL: Heat Index Near 100 With Threat Of Severe Storms

ILLINOIS — While Illinoisans can expect more hot and humid weather Thursday, they should also be aware of possibly severe storms. According to the National Weather Service, there is a significant thunderstorm risk Thursday, as well as a limited risk of hail and an elevated risk of damaging winds up to 70 mph.

Widely scattered thunderstorms will move into the area early to midafternoon on Thursday. The weather service said thunderstorms are expected to increase in coverage later Thursday afternoon and into the evening, when some storms could be severe.

Severe storms will be most likely between 3 and 11 p.m. The storms could be capable of locally damaging winds and flash flooding, the weather service said.