Image Source: FOX 32 Chicago
Chicago weather could become dangerous Sunday as multiple rounds of thunderstorms move across the region, bringing the possibility of damaging winds, large hail, heavy rain and flooding.
FOX 32 Chicago meteorologist Kaitlin Cody said strong to severe storms could develop during the midday and afternoon hours, followed by another potential round from the late afternoon into Sunday night. Forecasters warned that conditions may change quickly throughout the day.
Urgent Chicago Weather Alert: Storms May Arrive in Rounds
The National Weather Service issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for Lake and McHenry counties through 2 p.m. Sunday. A Severe Thunderstorm Warning was also issued for portions of Chicago, Cook County, DuPage County and Kendall County through 2 p.m.
Additional weather alerts were posted for parts of the Chicago area, including severe thunderstorm watches and flood advisories affecting Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, McHenry, Kane and Kendall counties. Residents should check the latest warnings before traveling or planning outdoor activities.
- Primary concern: Multiple rounds of strong to severe thunderstorms.
- Potential hazards: Damaging winds, hail, lightning, torrential rain and flooding.
- Timing: Storm chances increase from midday through the afternoon, with additional storms possible tonight.
- Temperatures: Highs are expected to reach the mid 80s beneath increasing clouds.
Critical Flooding Risk Could Build Tonight
While storms may arrive in waves, the greatest flooding potential is expected later Sunday night. Repeated downpours over the same locations could overwhelm streets, drainage systems and low-lying areas.
Drivers should never attempt to cross a flooded roadway. Even a shallow layer of moving water can sweep away a vehicle or hide dangerous road damage. People in areas under a flood advisory should remain alert for rapidly rising water and follow instructions from local officials.
Thunderstorms may also bring brief power outages, dangerous lightning and reduced visibility. Residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor items, keep phones charged and move indoors as soon as thunder is heard.
O’Hare Ground Stop Adds to Sunday Travel Disruptions
Thunderstorms were already affecting air travel Sunday. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, a ground stop was in effect at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport until 1:30 p.m. because of thunderstorms.
Additional delays and cancellations remained possible if storms continued near the airport. Travelers should confirm flight information with their airlines and allow extra time for airport security, road travel and possible weather-related disruptions.
Heavy rain could also slow traffic across the Chicago area, particularly during the afternoon and evening commute. Sudden visibility drops and standing water may create hazardous conditions on expressways and local roads.
Extended Forecast Shows More Storm Chances Ahead
The unsettled pattern is expected to continue after Sunday. Monday will be partly sunny with highs in the mid 80s, but another chance for strong to severe storms is expected, particularly during the afternoon and evening.
Tuesday will be mostly cloudy with temperatures again in the mid 80s and another opportunity for strong thunderstorms. Wednesday is expected to remain mostly cloudy, with rain and storms possible.
A gradual cooldown may arrive later in the week. Thursday should bring mostly cloudy skies with highs in the upper 70s to around 80 degrees. Friday is expected to be mostly sunny with highs in the upper 70s, although rain chances could return Friday night and continue into Saturday.
- Monday: Partly sunny, mid 80s, with afternoon and evening storm chances.
- Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, mid 80s, with another chance for severe weather.
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy with possible rain and thunderstorms.
- Thursday: Cloudy and cooler, with highs near 80.
- Friday: Mostly sunny and cooler, with rain possible at night.
- Saturday: Partly sunny, upper 70s, with additional rain chances.
What Chicago Residents Should Do Now
People across the Chicago region should monitor weather alerts throughout Sunday and remain prepared to seek shelter quickly. A sturdy indoor location away from windows is the safest place during a severe thunderstorm.
Those heading outside should be prepared for sudden changes, even if skies are temporarily quiet. The gap between storm rounds does not necessarily mean the threat has ended. The forecast information was provided by Fox Chicago meteorologists, with official alerts issued by the National Weather Service.
How long will the storm threat last?
Storm chances may continue from midday Sunday into the afternoon and again from late afternoon through Sunday night. Additional strong storms are possible Monday and Tuesday.
What are the main hazards from Sunday’s storms?
Forecasters are watching for damaging winds, hail, lightning, heavy rainfall and flooding. The best potential for flooding is expected tonight.
Will Chicago be affected by airport delays?
Yes. An FAA ground stop at O’Hare International Airport was in effect until 1:30 p.m. Sunday because of thunderstorms, and additional delays were possible.
What will temperatures be like?
Highs should reach the mid 80s Sunday through Wednesday before cooler temperatures arrive later in the week.
