Image Source: NBC 5 Chicago
Severe storms swept across the Chicago area on Saturday, affecting thousands of residents as strong winds and heavy rain caused significant disruptions. According to reports from NBC, over 68,000 ComEd customers were left without power during the storm’s peak. The violent weather included gusts reaching up to 60 miles per hour and led to extensive damage across the region.
Impact of Severe Weather on Chicago Communities
Counties in and around Chicago, including DuPage and Cook County, were particularly hard-hit. The storms resulted in downed power lines and snapped tree branches, leaving many areas in disarray. Local officials reported that a number of city facilities, including water pumps and two fire stations in Aurora, experienced outages. Thankfully, the storm did not impact the city’s water supply.
Severe Storms Cause Building Damages and Safety Measures
In a dramatic incident in Mount Prospect, part of an apartment building’s roof was ripped off, forcing the evacuation of numerous residents. Flying debris severely damaged vehicles in nearby parking lots, showcasing the storms’ intense power. Local authorities were quick to respond, providing emergency services and securing the area for residents’ safety.
In response to the extensive damage caused, the Mayor of Cary declared a state of emergency due to the severe outages and destruction. The village plans to conduct brush pickup for affected families starting the week of August 25. Meanwhile, in nearby Romeoville, downed wires and trees continued to pose risks, leading to warnings about the necessity of maintaining safe distances from hazardous areas.
O’Hare Airport Ground Stop Amid Storms
The storms also resulted in significant disruptions at O’Hare International Airport, where a ground stop was implemented due to severe weather conditions. Passengers faced delays as airlines worked to manage the impact of the storms on their schedules. Travelers were advised to check their flight status regularly and follow instructions from airline representatives.
Power Outages by the Numbers
As of the latest updates on Saturday night, here was a breakdown of the power outages by county:
- DuPage County – 357 customers without power
- DeKalb County – 461 customers without power
- Cook County – 17,191 customers without power
- Kendall County – 3,845 customers without power
- Lake County – 1,923 customers without power
- McHenry County – 11,893 customers without power
- Will County – 8,986 customers without power
ComEd has urged customers to remain patient while crews work diligently to restore power. Reports of damage continue to surface as residents share experiences of the chaotic weather event. Regular updates are expected as more information becomes available about recovery efforts and restoration timelines.
Stay Safe Amid Severe Weather in Chicago
This weekend’s severe weather serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for unexpected storms. Residents are encouraged to stay indoors during extreme weather and to utilize safe practices when venturing outside after storms, particularly in areas with downed power lines or fallen trees. Local news channels, such as NBC 5, are providing ongoing coverage and safety tips for affected communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I experience a power outage?
Contact your power provider (such as ComEd) to report the outage and stay tuned to local news for updates on restoration efforts.
How can I prepare for severe storms?
Ensure you have an emergency kit, stay informed through weather alerts, and create a family communication plan.
Where can I find updates during severe weather?
Check local news sources and weather websites for real-time updates on weather conditions and safety information.
