2026 has been one of the most active severe-weather years in recent Illinois memory. Below is a timeline of the major storm events affecting the state — what happened, where, and which communities saw the worst roof and property damage.
If your home was in the path of any of these storms, you may have a covered insurance claim. Illinois carriers generally allow 365 days from the date of loss to file — so even earlier-season storms may still be claimable. When in doubt, a free inspection will tell you where you stand.
2026 Storm Events
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May 18, 2026Minor
Morning Storms: Wind Damage & Brief Tornado
A line of storms moved across the area, producing wind damage in Cook and Kankakee counties and a brief EF-0 tornado near Paxton. A 79 mph wind gust was recorded at Midway Airport, downing trees and power lines.
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April 17, 2026Minor
Severe Storms: Tornadoes, Large Hail & Damaging Winds
A supercell produced hail over 2 inches, several tornadoes, and 60–70 mph wind gusts across the region. The National Weather Service confirmed 12 tornadoes in its Chicago forecast area, along with river flooding.
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April 13–15, 2026Minor
Multiple Days of Severe Weather & Flooding
Consecutive days of strong storms brought damaging winds and record rainfall to the Chicago metro — 2.43" fell at O'Hare on April 14, a daily record — with flooding along the Fox, Rock, and Des Plaines rivers.
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April 2, 2026Minor
Three Tornadoes & Wind Damage in Northern Illinois
An early-April outbreak produced three tornadoes and widespread wind damage across northern Illinois, adding to an unusually active 2026 storm season.
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March 31, 2026⚠ Heavy · Full Report
Southwest Chicago Suburbs Hail
Golf ball-sized hail (around 1.75") and 60+ mph winds hit the southwest suburbs — Oak Lawn, Tinley Park, Orland Park, and surrounding communities — the second major storm in three weeks.
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March 10, 2026⚠ Heavy · Full Report
Kankakee Valley Supercell & DuPage Hail
A historic supercell produced record 6.6" hail near Kankakee, 4.8" hail across the DuPage suburbs, and an EF-3 tornado near Aroma Park — the most severe single event of the year.