Illinois has had nearly 300 tornado warnings this year – a new record (opens original article in a new tab)

Illinois has set a record with 281 tornado warnings in 2026, according to the National Weather Service. The NWS Chicago office issued the most warnings, primarily in southern and northern areas of the state. Preliminary data shows 210 tornado reports, with confirmed counts expected to be lower.

• Illinois has issued 281 tornado warnings in 2026, a new record.
• The NWS Chicago office issued 137 of the warnings, mostly south of Interstate 80 and near the Wisconsin-Illinois border.
• Preliminary reports show 210 tornadoes, with confirmed counts expected to be around 160-170.