The National Weather Service issued multiple tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings early Saturday for areas in Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee, Illinois, Indiana and Texas.

A sprawling storm system crossing the U.S. has caused deadly crashes, damaged buildings and fanned more than 100 wildfires in several central states, prompting evacuation orders in some communities. N

The fast-moving line of storms was capable of producing destructive winds over 70 miles per hour and potential tornadoes, and was expected to clear the Chicago area and Northwest

High winds remain the primary concern for the incoming storms, reaching up to 75 miles per hour. Tornadoes are still a possibility.

A line of severe thunderstorms, the first extreme weather event of the year, will hit the Chicago area around midnight Friday, according to the National Weather Service.

Severe storms capable of produce damaging wind, heavy rain, hail and even tornadoes expected across the Midstate today.

Severe weather warnings remain in place throughout the weekend as extreme conditions, including a tornado outbreak, threatens the South.

Most of the rest of north Alabama will have a Level 2 risk, and a small area in the northeast corner of the state will have a Level 1 risk. If storms can develop they have the potential to be intense, especially west of Interstate 65. Tornadoes, damaging winds and hail will be possible.