Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to sweep across northern Illinois on Thursday afternoon and evening, bringing the potential for damaging winds, hail and even isolated tornadoes, according to the National Weather Service.

Forecasters say the region will enter an active and potentially volatile weather pattern as a powerful spring storm system moves into the area. A warm front is expected to lift north across the area Thursday morning, ushering in much warmer and more humid air. Temperatures are forecast to climb into the 60s and 70s.

Southerly winds will also increase throughout the day, with gusts reaching 40 to 45 mph even outside of thunderstorms.

The primary window for severe weather is expected from Thursday afternoon into the evening, when a cold front approaches the region. The Storm Prediction Center has placed northern Illinois under a Level 2 out of 5 severe weather risk.

Storms that develop could produce damaging wind gusts capable of downing tree limbs, along with hail large enough to dent vehicles and damage siding. Forecasters also say isolated tornadoes cannot be ruled out.

In addition to the severe weather threat, locally heavy rainfall may lead to minor flooding in some areas, especially where storms repeatedly track over the same locations.

Showers and thunderstorms may begin as early as Thursday morning, but the most intense activity is expected later in the day. Storms should gradually diminish Thursday night as the cold front pushes east of the area.

Residents are urged to stay weather-aware throughout the day, ensure they have multiple ways to receive warnings, and be prepared to take shelter if severe weather develops.