Updated April 17, 2026 — 11:02 PM EDT
A tornado touched down in Lena, Illinois, late Friday as a large storm system moved toward the Chicago area. The National Weather Service issued a tornado warning for Lena at 4:45 p.m. CT, and livestreams from the village showed a rotating storm moving over the town.
Local officials reported widespread damage, with large trees snapped and power lines down blocking roads. The Stephenson County Sheriff’s Office warned on social media that there was no way to get into town because of downed trees and wires and asked people not to come to Lena while emergency crews worked. The sheriff’s office said there were no deaths or serious injuries reported.
Sheriff Steve Stovall said, “We are extremely fortunate that this storm did not result in loss of life or serious injury. Our focus remains on ensuring the safety of our residents, securing the affected areas, and supporting the Village of Lena as recovery efforts move forward.”
The Village of Lena Police Department issued an urgent alert urging residents to take shelter as another storm moved in, and warned: “Do not go out to look at damage. Stay off the roads. Our crews are out working, and we need the roads clear so they can do their jobs safely. If you’re able, check on neighbors—but only if you can do it safely.”
Gov. J.B. Pritzker said the Illinois Emergency Management Agency has responded and is coordinating with local officials to provide state support. He urged residents to follow local guidance and stay safe.
Photos and video from Lena show toppled trees, scattered debris and downed power lines. At 6:20 p.m., the Stephenson County Sheriff’s Office announced Lena was “Shut down” while officials prepared for another round of storms and ordered no traffic in or out of town until further notice as emergency services assisted with damage.
Residents described taking cover as tornado sirens sounded and power went out. One resident, Rich, said they watched a funnel cloud form and move through from the southwest. Marcia said she took her dog to the basement and heard a “big old crash,” which turned out to be a large tree falling rather than her roof being torn off.
Radio traffic from public safety officials indicated the National Weather Service warned of a large and “extremely dangerous” tornado just west of Lena. Reports relayed over the radio said parts of Lena High School’s roof and damage to the elementary school were observed while students were inside; officials reported no injuries and kept students sheltered as the storm passed. School and village leaders had not yet released full details on the extent of school damage.
As night fell, residents and volunteers began clearing debris, hauling dumpsters and making temporary repairs. Neighbor and community responses were immediate, with people pitching in to make sure neighbors were safe and to reopen access where possible.
Lena is located about 48 miles west of Rockford and roughly 120 miles west of Chicago. Emergency crews remained on scene into the night, and authorities urged residents to heed road closures and official instructions while damage assessments and recovery continue.