Tornado Warning, Severe Storm Threat Until Late Wednesday

A fast-moving storm system triggered tornado sirens across the Rockford region for the second consecutive night, with severe thunderstorms expected to continue until late Wednesday night (4/15).

Tornado Warning Issued in Northern Illinois

A dangerous severe weather system swept across northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin on Wednesday night, prompting urgent alerts across the region.

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The National Weather Service had a Tornado Warning in effect until 8:30 pm for north central Ogle County and southwestern Winnebago County, with radar indicating a rotating storm near German Valley around 8:11 pm

A Tornado Watch remains in effect until 10 pm CDT for portions of northwest Illinois, along the border with Iowa.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch Remains in Effect

The broader storm system continues to affect much of northern Illinois, where a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until midnight. Damaging winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes remain possible late into Wednesday night.

Emergency officials urge residents to take shelter immediately if warnings are issued, emphasizing that basements and interior rooms away from windows are the safest locations during severe weather warnings.

Flood Risk Emerging Along Rock River

A Flash Flood Warning has been issued for Boone County and Winnebago County until 2:30 am on Thursday. Rainfall of 1 to 2 inches per hour is possible during this storm.

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Beyond the immediate storm threat, officials are also monitoring rising water levels along the Rock River. A Flood Watch is set to begin on Thursday afternoon (4/16), with water levels expected to approach or exceed flood stage.

According to the National Weather Service, the river stood at 7.6 feet at last check, with flood stage set at 9 feet. Areas near Bauer Parkway and Shorewood Park in Loves Park could see impacts, including potential closures and property threats if levels continue to rise.