Image of a downed tree after severe weather passed through Watseka, Illinois on April 17, 2026.
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The 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.
