Seven Tornadoes Confirmed Across Illinois and Indiana as NWS Wraps Up December 28 Storm Surveys
ILLINOIS — The National Weather Service has confirmed that seven tornadoes touched down across Illinois and Indiana during a fast-moving and unusually intense storm system on December 28, following the completion of preliminary damage surveys across multiple counties.
The storms developed rapidly along a powerful cold front and moved east at highway speeds, producing a rare late-December tornado outbreak that included multiple EF-1 tornadoes and a strong EF-2 tornado that caused significant damage in Illinois.
Breakdown of Confirmed Tornadoes
According to NWS survey data, the seven tornadoes included:
- One EF-2 tornado in Illinois
- Four EF-1 tornadoes
- Two EF-0 tornadoes
The strongest tornado — rated EF-2 — struck Mt. Zion, Illinois, where several homes were destroyed and widespread structural damage was reported. That tornado remained on the ground for more than 23 miles, making it the longest-tracked tornado of the event.
Other tornadoes caused scattered damage across central and eastern Illinois and western Indiana, including roof damage, downed trees, power outages, and destroyed outbuildings.
Tornado Wind Speeds and Path Details
NWS findings indicate:
- EF-2 tornado: Estimated winds up to 115 mph, path length over 23 miles
- EF-1 tornadoes: Winds ranging from 90–100 mph, with path lengths from 1 to 9 miles
- EF-0 tornadoes: Winds near 80 mph, shorter and more localized tracks
Some tornadoes were on the ground for only minutes, while others carved long, continuous damage paths across rural and suburban areas.
Why the Tornadoes Were So Fast-Moving
Meteorologists say the December 28 storms were unusually fast, with tornadoes racing northeast at 55 to 60 mph. This rapid motion was driven by a strong jet stream and a powerful parent cold front, which allowed storms to maintain rotation even as temperatures dropped sharply behind the system.
Because of their speed, warnings provided very little lead time, making the tornadoes especially dangerous for motorists and residents caught outdoors.
Rare December Tornado Event
While tornadoes are not unheard of in winter, December tornado outbreaks in Illinois and Indiana remain uncommon, particularly events involving EF-2 strength tornadoes.
The storm system also produced:
- Severe thunderstorms
- Damaging straight-line winds
- A dramatic temperature drop of 40–60 degrees within hours
- Snow and blizzard conditions behind the cold front
Officials say this sharp contrast in air masses helped fuel the severe weather before winter conditions quickly took over.
Damage Assessments Ongoing
Local emergency managers continue to assess structural damage and assist affected residents. No fatalities have been reported in connection with the tornadoes, though multiple homes were rendered uninhabitable, particularly in Illinois.
The National Weather Service noted that additional survey updates are possible if new damage information becomes available.
What Residents Should Do Moving Forward
Officials urge residents in tornado-prone states — even during winter — to:
- Keep weather alerts enabled year-round
- Have multiple ways to receive warnings overnight
- Review tornado safety plans regardless of season
Winter tornadoes often occur with little warning, making preparedness critical.
Stay with WaldronNews.com for continued updates on severe weather, storm damage, and recovery efforts across the Midwest. If your area was affected, share your experience with us and help keep your community informed.