June 15, 2026/

Illinois Quick Hits: 26 tornadoes confirmed in Illinois, NW Indiana last week

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By Jim Talamonti | The Center Square
The Center Square

(The Center Square) – The National Weather Service has confirmed at least 17 tornadoes in its Chicago area of responsibility Thursday and nine tornadoes across central Illinois last Wednesday and Thursday.

EF-3 tornadoes were confirmed in Streator, Illinois, Washburn, Illinois and Kouts, Indiana. EF-2 twisters occurred from Hickory Hills to Chicago Midway Airport and from Merrillville to Hobart, Indiana.

Preliminary NWS reports also confirmed straight-line wind damage, isolated large hail and flooding.

No deaths associated with the storms were reported in Illinois.

CASINO EXTENSION APPROVED

The Illinois Gaming Board has approved measures to allow the extension of gambling operations at the Chicago and Waukegan temporary casinos while permanent facilities are under construction.

The extensions allow Bally’s to operate at its temporary location for an additional 12 months until Sept. 9, 2027 and FHR-Illinois American Place to operate for an additional 18 months until Feb. 17, 2029.

CHICAGO SPENDS MILLIONS FOR 44 “AFFORDABLE” HOMES

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has broken ground on an affordable housing project that uses tax-increment financing, bond funds and city-provided land.

Sponsored by Corinth Temple Church of God in partnership with United for Better Living, the $32 million, 44-home development is supported by up to $9.5 million in TIF funds, $9.75 million in housing and economic development bond funds and about $14.76 million in tax-exempt bond volume cap.

The Johnson administration granted two parcels previously owned by the city to United for Better Living.

FREE FISHING DAYS OFFERED

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is inviting families to participate in free fishing days from Friday through June 22.

Anglers can fish on these days without purchasing a fishing license, salmon stamp or inland trout stamp.

The state charges $15 for resident fishing licenses. Fees for other licenses can be found on IDNR’s fishing licenses website.

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