by Chicago, IL – A wave of scattered thunderstorms and heavy rain is forecast to sweep across Chicago and much of northern Illinois through late Wednesday night, bringing dangerous conditions including flash flooding, power outages, and hazardous travel for thousands of residents.
Timing and Storm Impact
The National Weather Service in Chicago warns that multiple rounds of storms will move across the region beginning late Tuesday and lasting into Wednesday evening. These storms will bring periods of intense rainfall, with some areas expected to receive several inches of rain within a short period. As a result, flash flooding is a major concern—especially in low-lying areas, urban streets, underpasses, and creek beds.
The storm threat has been given a severity rating of 2 out of 5, while the risk of flash flooding is significantly higher at 3 out of 4.
Areas Most at Risk
Counties under the highest threat include Cook, DuPage, Kane, and Lake, where morning and evening commuters are likely to face delays and dangerous road conditions. Local emergency officials are urging residents to:
- Charge mobile devices
- Check flashlights and batteries
- Avoid driving through flooded roadways, even if they appear shallow
Strong storms may also bring damaging wind gusts capable of snapping tree limbs and power lines, as well as frequent lightning that could disrupt outdoor activities and infrastructure.
Ongoing Hazards and Precautions
Storms are moving eastward at 30–40 mph, and severe weather conditions are expected to persist through Wednesday night. Residents should monitor forecasts closely, as additional advisories or warnings may be issued if the situation worsens.
What You Can Do
Officials are encouraging everyone to take immediate safety precautions:
- Stay indoors during storms and avoid unnecessary travel
- Do not walk or drive through flooded areas
- Keep emergency kits and backup power sources ready
- Monitor local alerts via weather apps, radios, or news channels
With flash flooding posing a significant and ongoing threat, staying alert and prepared is essential to avoid injury or property damage.
Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available and weather conditions evolve.
