After several reports of tornadoes around the Chicago area Wednesday night, strong-to-severe storms are expected across a widespread area stretching from the Plains, Mississippi Valley and into the Northeast. 

LANDSLIDE RAVAGES HOMES IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA COMMUNITY, EVACUATIONS CONTINUE

Heavy rain and flash flooding there will once again be a big risk for some of the areas that have dealt with historic rainfall. 

Meanwhile, a significant and prolonged heat wave will expand over the Southern Tier of the country. 

Record-setting temperatures are expected for cities like Phoenix and Las Vegas heading into the weekend.