About this recording
Published 2026-05-05. On April 17, 2026, an EF2 tornado struck Lena, Illinois during a larger Upper Midwest outbreak. The National Weather Service says many homes and outbuildings were damaged, trees were uprooted, and power lines were downed. The broader event also brought widespread 60–80 mph wind gusts, isolated higher gusts, and large hail up to teacup size across the region. This archived recording reflects reporting at publication; conditions may have changed.
An archive briefing, not a real-time warning. Follow current instructions from local authorities.
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