More than 100 million Americans are under a severe weather threat as a powerful storm system moves across the United States from Texas to Michigan.
Forecasters warn the system could bring strong tornadoes, destructive winds, and hail as large as baseballs across several states Tuesday night.
The dangerous weather stretches across the Midwest and parts of the South, putting major cities and rural communities on high alert.
According to the NOAA Storm Prediction Center, multiple strong tornadoes are possible in several regions as the system intensifies.
Tornado Damage Reported in Illinois
Emergency officials reported damage in Kankakee County, Illinois after a large tornado touched down earlier Tuesday evening.
The Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office said the village of Aroma Park suffered extensive property damage.
Officials said there were no immediate reports of injuries, though damage assessments were still underway.
A tornado watch was issued for north central Illinois along with parts of Missouri, Iowa, and Indiana until late Tuesday evening.
Major Cities in Storm Path
Chicago and surrounding areas were expected to face powerful thunderstorms Tuesday afternoon and evening. Meteorologists warned that heavy rainfall could also trigger flash flooding.
Areas at highest risk for tornado activity include Burlington and Quincy in Illinois along with Fort Wayne in Indiana.
The severe weather corridor also stretches across Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Michigan, and parts of Indiana.
Cities including Detroit, Indianapolis, and Oklahoma City may experience damaging winds, large hail, and possible tornadoes.
The National Weather Service urged residents in affected areas to stay alert and monitor local emergency alerts.
Storm System Moving East
The storm system is expected to continue moving east through Wednesday.
Forecasters say the severe weather threat could reach Washington, D.C. by Wednesday afternoon with damaging winds and possible tornadoes.
Storms may then move into Ohio and Tennessee, affecting cities such as Cincinnati, Memphis, and Nashville.
By Thursday morning the system is expected to move offshore along the East Coast.
Snow Possible After Severe Storms
After the storms pass, a cold front is expected to quickly drop temperatures across parts of the East Coast.
Meteorologists say lingering moisture behind the system could even bring light snow to some areas including Washington, D.C. and Richmond, Virginia.
The dramatic weather shift highlights the intensity of the powerful spring storm system moving across the country.
Meanwhile, New York City experienced unusually warm conditions Tuesday as Central Park reached 80 degrees. The temperature broke a record set in 2016 and marked the earliest 80 degree day on record for the city.