CREDIT: National Weather Service

The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch in effect for Kane County until 11 p.m. Monday, Aug. 25, 2014.

The watch follows a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for southwestern Kane County that was in effect until 4:30 p.m. The warning was issued at 3:40 p.m.

According to the NWS Chicago, severe thunderstorms were located at a tline extending from Malta to Earlville and moving east at about 45 mph.

Winds of up to 60 mph and quarter-size hail were reported. Watch for possible hail damage to vehicles.

Locations impacted include Hinckley, Maple Park, Elburn, Sugar Grove, Waubsonsee Community College and others.

A watch is issued by the National Weather Service when conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. A severe thunderstorm by definition is a thunderstorm that produces one inch hail or larger in diameter and/or winds equal or exceed 58 miles an hour.

The size of the watch can vary depending on the weather situation. They are usually issued for a duration of 4 to 8 hours. They are normally issued well in advance of the actual occurrence of severe weather. During the watch, people should review severe thunderstorm safety rules and be prepared to move a place of safety if threatening weather approaches.

SOURCE: National Weather Service Chicago