Tens of thousands of people across the Midwest and Plains are without power after tornadoes leveled homes and buildings Tuesday night. Here’s the latest.

A massive tornado tore through eastern Illinois on Tuesday evening, churning through Kankakee County. The storm system brought heavy rain, strong winds and DVD-sized hail, prompting multiple watches and warnings to the area.

Following Tuesday's destructive tornadoes, more severe thunderstorms will erupt from Texas to the mid-Atlantic states. Get the latest on the severe outbreak's impacts and forecast here.

This tornado was spotted in Taylor County, Texas, on Tuesday afternoon. Wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail as big as baseballs were also associated with the storm.

When severe weather strikes, being prepared and knowing what to do could save your life. Meteorologist Caitlin Kaiser explains exactly when it’s time to act and take shelter, why you shouldn’t rely on sirens and the surprising things to have in your emergency kit.