Illinois Storm Chaser Finds a ‘Monster Lurking in the Corn’

Yes, it's an obvious fact that storm chasing is dangerous, but it's even more so in the rural areas of Illinois. One storm chaser recently discovered a 'monster lurking in the corn' - a massive EF-2 tornado that he couldn't see initially because a field of corn was blocking his view.

Skip Talbot Storm Chasing was chasing in Illinois on August 6 when his weather radio alerted him there was a confirmed tornado near Taylorville, Illinois where he was. Here's what he said about it:

An EF2 tornado is documented passing south of Edinburg, Illinois and crossing Highway 29 north of Taylorville, August 6th, 2023.

As Skip was driving down a country road, there was a corn field on his right. Look closely at the right side of this pic and you'll see part of what he calls "a monster".

Once he was clear of the field, he saw what the corn had been hiding. A big wedge EF-2 twister.

The National Weather Service says this EF-2 twister had an estimated wind speed of 125 mph at peak. They show it being just northeast of Taylorville, Illinois and a damage path of more than 23 miles on the ground.

Skip Talbot did a great job of sharing the highlights of his chase and he's definitely a recommended follow on YouTube if you enjoy Illinois storm moments like this one.