Image of a downed tree after severe weather passed through Watseka, Illinois on April 17, 2026.
Image of a downed tree after severe weather passed through Watseka, Illinois on April 17, 2026.
via Iroquois County EMAThe National Weather Service has confirmed at least 22 tornadoes in preliminary reports following severe storms that moved through central Illinois Friday. According to the NWS, a supercell storm developed ahead of the main line during the afternoon, tracking north across west-central Illinois. That storm produced damaging winds and hail up to 2 inches in diameter. Officials say the wind-driven hail caused significant damage, including broken windows and siding damage to several homes along its path.