Story perspectives

Severe Midwest Storms Expected: Hail, Winds, Tornado Risk

3/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Severe weather is expected in the Midwest Thursday afternoon, bringing hail, strong winds, and possible tornadoes, per the National Weather Service.
The highest risk areas include parts of Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio.
Meteorologist Liz Leitman noted storms could produce hail over two inches, gusts to 80 mph, and heavy rainfall, with a marginal flood risk.
More storms are anticipated next week, and fatalities in storms raise concerns about climate change.

History

Historical Context

The Great Tri-State Tornado struck on March 18, 1925, killing 695 people across Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana, making it the deadliest tornado in U.S. history. This disaster led the U.S. Weather Bureau to enhance storm prediction systems, shaping modern meteorology. Today, severe weather warnings in the Midwest reflect ongoing challenges in predicting tornadoes amid rising concerns about climate change and storm intensity.

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Story summary

Severe weather is expected in the Midwest Thursday afternoon, bringing hail, strong winds, and possible tornadoes, per the National Weather Service.
The highest risk areas include parts of Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio.
Meteorologist Liz Leitman noted storms could produce hail over two inches, gusts to 80 mph, and heavy rainfall, with a marginal flood risk.
More storms are anticipated next week, and fatalities in storms raise concerns about climate change.

1 / 2