Sterling, Illinois — Communities across northern Illinois are beginning the long process of cleanup after a powerful round of storms produced 12 confirmed tornadoes on April 2, leaving behind damaged homes, uprooted trees, and scattered debris.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities office, at least five tornadoes touched down within their region. Two of the strongest were rated EF1, with winds reaching up to 90 mph.
Sterling experienced some of the most significant impact. An EF1 tornado moved through the area between 6:02 p.m. and 6:07 p.m., carving a 4.1-mile path and damaging buildings, tearing apart outbuildings, and snapping trees along the way.
In nearby Savanna, another EF1 tornado briefly touched down around 6 p.m., traveling about a quarter mile. Though short-lived, it still caused visible damage to trees and a small structure, adding to the region’s storm toll.
The severe weather system was driven by a single, intense supercell thunderstorm that moved from eastern Iowa into northern Illinois between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Along its path, it produced multiple tornadoes and large hail, including stones up to 3 inches in diameter in parts of Carroll County.
Despite the widespread damage, officials have reported no injuries or fatalities so far, offering some relief amid the destruction.
Authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damage, and residents are being advised to stay alert as severe weather season continues to build across the Midwest.
