Bow Echo Accelerates into Indiana with 80 MPH Wind Swath and Tornado Potential — SevereWX

An intense bow echo is surging southeastward from northeast Illinois, just south of Chicago, directly into northern and central Indiana. This storm, born from a transitioning supercell, is packing 80-knot winds aloft and is primed to unleash a swath of severe damage through early evening.

Storm Prediction Center meteorologists note extreme instability (3000-4000 J/kg MLCAPE) and robust wind shear (45+ kt) fueling the bow's rapid motion at 40-45 mph. KLOT radar already shows 80 kt winds mere hundreds of feet above ground, signaling imminent 65-80 mph gusts at the surface. Western edges of existing Watch 519 could see the worst, with the system pushing into central IN.

Beyond winds, expect isolated large hail (1-1.75 inches) and a tornado or two, with peak intensities around EF1-EF2 (85-110 mph). SPC pegs watch issuance odds at 95% downstream—a near-certainty for new coverage.

Affected areas span far eastern Illinois into Indiana, tracked by WFOs including LOT, ILX, IND, IWX, and ILN. Track the latest on SPC's site for graphics and updates.

Stay prepared: Monitor local warnings, secure outdoor items, and have a severe weather plan ready. Know your safe spot indoors away from windows.