More than 13.9 million people face dangerous conditions as severe storms sweep through
Residents across Chicagoland and parts of northwestern Indiana are under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch through this afternoon as a dangerous storm system pushes through the region, bringing the threat of tornadoes, destructive winds and large hail to one of the country’s most populated metro areas.
The watch, issued by the National Weather Service, covers more than 13.9 million people and is in effect until 5 p.m. CST. The watch area includes more than 4,200 schools and 278 hospitals across the Chicago metro and northwest Indiana.
What the storms could bring
The NWS has identified three primary hazards from the storm system. Wind gusts of up to 70 mph could cause significant damage to trees, rooftops and structures. Hail approaching the size of a ping pong ball is possible across the watch area. And while not guaranteed, tornadoes remain a possibility that forecasters have not ruled out.
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings were issued this morning for several counties, including Chicago, Cook and Lake County in Indiana, as well as Will, Grundy and Kendall Counties. Winds at Midway Airport gusted to 53 mph during the morning hours. FOX Chicago meteorologist Michael Caplan noted that some of the earlier storms appeared to be weakening as the morning progressed, and the watch was subsequently lifted for Kendall and Grundy Counties.
Airport disruptions
Both of Chicago’s major airports are experiencing significant disruptions this morning. The FAA issued a ground stop at Midway International Airport due to the storm activity. At O’Hare International Airport, a ground delay is in effect, with arriving flights facing average delays of 76 minutes and departing flights delayed an average of 30 minutes, a figure that was continuing to grow at the time of reporting. Travelers with flights at either airport should check with their airline for the latest updates before heading out.
Illinois warnings extend beyond the city
Severe weather warnings have also spread into central and southern Illinois. The NWS issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Effingham, Clay and Jasper Counties in south-central and southeastern Illinois, covering a storm system tracking northeast at approximately 40 mph. That system is capable of producing wind gusts around 60 mph and hail roughly the size of a quarter, with forecasters warning of potential damage to vehicles, rooftops, siding and trees.
The warning area includes the community of Bible Grove and portions of Interstate 57 and Interstate 70. Residents in the affected zone are advised to move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building until conditions clear.
What to expect through the week
Conditions are forecast to ease after the watch period ends this afternoon. Tuesday may bring a similar mix of showers and thunderstorms, primarily in the morning and early afternoon, though some areas could avoid rainfall entirely, with southern counties most likely to see activity. Temperatures Tuesday are expected to approach 80 degrees ahead of a cold front expected late in the day.
That front will usher in a noticeable cooldown through midweek. Wednesday highs may struggle to reach 60 degrees, with Thursday only slightly warmer. Temperatures are expected to recover gradually through the end of the week, climbing toward 70 on Friday and back near 80 by Sunday. The highest chance of additional rainfall in that stretch is Friday night.
SOURCES: FOX 32 Chicago, Effingham RADIO