Severe thunderstorm warnings popped off in the greater Chicago area through the evening Thursday, forcing the evacuation of tens of thousands of people from the Windy City Smokeout.

Chicago faced a stormy weekend with severe weather threats, including hail and gusty winds, according to forecasts.

The Windy City Smokeout Country Music and BBQ Festival began Thursday outside the United Center, and is set to run through Sunday. On Thursday evening, everyone had to leave as severe storms blew in.