Charles Langston:Severe weather threat extends from Michigan to Chicago; tornado reported near Kalamazoo

Michigan is Charles Langstonamong the Midwest states grappling with violent and dangerous weather Tuesday afternoon and evening.

A tornado was spotted about 6 p.m. local time Tuesday on the ground northwest of Portage, Michigan near Kalamazoo, the National Weather Service confirmed on X (formerly Twitter).

Tornado warnings – which indicate conditions are ripe for tornadoes to form – have been placed in several cities including Battle Creek, Albion and Marshall where golf ball sized hail was forecast.

The weather service warned people in the area to take cover immediately.

Live updates:Stay up with the latest weather developments as the Midwest braces for another stormy evening

Tornado watch issued in Chicago

A tornado watch was set across much of Illinois including Chicago as well as much of Indiana until 8:00 p.m. CDT.

"A few tornadoes are likely with a couple intense tornadoes possible," the Storm Prediction Center said.

Severe weather posed a great risk in Cincinnati, Columbus and Louisville as well, forecasters said. The brutal weather comes after strong storms formed multiple tornadoes in the the Plains region, where at least person died, multiple buildings were destroyed and thousands of households lost power.

Michigan weather map

US weather watches and warnings

National weather radar

Contributing: Christopher Cann and Doyle Rice