weather

Tornadoes reported in Illinois, Iowa as severe weather roils Midwest

Updated on: June 17, 2026 / 11:22 PM EDT / CBS News

Tornadoes reported in Illinois, Iowa as severe weather roils Midwest

TL;DR

  • Confirmed tornadoes were reported in Harpers Ferry, Iowa, and Charleston, Illinois.
  • The National Weather Service flagged these tornadoes as part of a "particularly dangerous situation."
  • Charleston, Illinois, suffered extensive damage, including downed trees and power lines, and declared a local state of emergency.
  • Hail measuring 2.75 inches was reported in the Charleston area.
  • Effingham, Illinois, also experienced damage to buildings, trailers, downed power lines, and trees.
  • At least 55,000 customers were without power in Illinois.
  • Meteorologists described the tornado conditions as rare for June due to a strong jet stream, tropical moisture, and cold air.
  • At least seven tornadoes were reported during the weather event.