severe t'storm watch

We've just been put under a severe thunderstorm watch until 3pm. (And another one is possible for the evening hours after a break this afternoon.)

SPC almost went with a "PDS" -- Particularly Dangerous Situation -- watch, which is rare territory. They ultimately went against that, but the chance of severe weather is pegged at 80%, which is very high. 

A line of severe storms is approaching from the northwest right now. It will arrive in the far western suburbs between 10-11am and downtown between 11am and noon.

This line has a history of 80+ mph gusts and significant wind damage along with frequent lightning and brief heavy rains. 

A severe t'storm warning is likely with this line of storms. I won't sent an update unless something significant changes -- expect strong to severe storms across the area from ~10:30 through ~12:30.