Bow Echo Barreling into Eastern Illinois, Indiana with 80 MPH Wind Threat — SevereWX

An aggressive bow echo is surging southeastward from northeast Illinois, just south of Chicago, straight into far eastern Illinois and northern/central Indiana. The Storm Prediction Center's latest Mesoscale Discussion (1764) flags a 95% chance of a new watch as this storm mode strengthens in an environment loaded with 3000-4000 J/kg MLCAPE and 45+ kt shear.

KLOT radar shows 80 kt winds mere hundreds of feet above ground, signaling a swath of severe gusts up to 80 mph possible right away in western parts of Watch 519. Downstream into central Indiana, the setup supports ongoing organization, with storms racing ahead at 40-45 kt. Expect a damaging wind path through early evening, plus isolated large hail (1-1.75 inches) and a tornado or two (EF1-EF2, 85-110 mph).

This comes downstream from Watch 520, covering the Chicago-area action. The bow's transition from a supercell amplifies the right-rear-flank downdraft potential for brutal straight-line winds. Populations along I-65 and I-70 corridors should brace for impacts.

Peak threats: 65-80 mph winds, 1-1.75" hail, EF1-EF2 tornadoes.

Stay tuned to SPC for watch issuance. Have your severe weather plan ready—monitor radar, secure outdoors, and know your safe spot.