Live Wind Speed & Gust Radar Map — Illinois
The Illinois Wind Speed Radar displays real-time surface wind direction, sustained velocity, and peak atmospheric wind gusts across coastal and inland {state}. View real-time surface wind speed, offshore gale gusts, and atmospheric wind stream vectors across Illinois in high resolution. Data updates every 5 to 10 minutes from NOAA & NWS dual-polarization Doppler stations.
NWS Radar Station Infrastructure (Illinois)
Radar surveillance across Illinois relies on National Weather Service (NWS) NEXRAD WSR-88D Doppler stations including **KLOT** (Chicago / Romeoville Radar in Romeoville), **ILX** (Central Illinois Radar in Lincoln). These high-frequency microwave radar sites transmit pulsed radio beams every 4.5 to 10 minutes, generating real-time base reflectivity scans.
Active Station Callsigns
How to Read Wind Speed Scale
Indicates light rain or atmospheric drizzle that usually does not impede travel.
Represents steady, moderate rainfall. Roads may experience pooling and reduced visibility.
Indicates torrential downpours, severe convective thunderstorms, lightning, or potential hail cores.
Regional Climate & Atmospheric Context
Illinois sits in the Midwest severe weather belt, marked by intense spring tornado outbreaks, derecho windstorms, summer flash flooding, and severe winter blizzards. Using S-band dual-polarization technology, radar pulses measure raindrop diameter and ice density to distinguish between light drizzle, torrential downpours, and hail.