Strong storms, hail, flooding expected for Illinois

The National Weather Service says tornadoes, strong winds and large hail could pound portions of southern and southwestern Illinois in the coming days.

Forecasters say there's a slight risk of severe weather Wednesday, but a moderate slight risk on Thursday.

Meteorologists predict thunderstorms Wednesday afternoon and evening, which they say could produce large hail and heavy rain. Thursday's forecast includes more rain and hail, but also the chance of tornadoes - especially in the afternoon and evening.

Closer to home, the forecast in Chicago and the suburbs is for clouds to move in this afternoon with a threat of thunderstorms tonight and Thursday morning. Rainfall totals could hit up to an inch by midday Thursday.

Temperatures are expected to climb overnight Thursday into the 50s, but make a dramatic turn and fall into the 30s by Friday night.

Meanwhile, some areas of central Illinois could be at risk for flooding. Forecasters say as much as four inches of rain could fall in some regions through Friday.