Image Source: FOX 32 Chicago
Severe thunderstorm warning conditions developed across the Chicago area Sunday, with multiple rounds of storms possible from midday through the evening. The storms could bring damaging winds, large hail, frequent lightning and heavy rainfall, while the greatest flooding threat was expected later at night.
FOX 32 Chicago meteorologist Kaitlin Cody said the region could experience strong to severe weather during both the midday-to-afternoon period and again from late afternoon into tonight. Residents were urged to stay alert as conditions could change quickly.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Chicago-Area Counties
The National Weather Service issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for Lake and McHenry counties, while a Severe Thunderstorm Warning covered parts of Chicago, Cook County, DuPage County and Kendall County. The warning mentioned in the FOX 32 Chicago forecast was in effect until 2 p.m. Sunday, although alert times varied by location.
Additional weather alerts included severe thunderstorm watches for portions of Cook and DuPage counties, along with flood advisories affecting parts of McHenry, Lake, Will, Cook and DuPage counties. These advisories reflected concerns about repeated downpours and rapidly rising water on roads and in low-lying areas.
- Strong to severe storms were possible during multiple periods Sunday.
- Damaging winds, hail and frequent lightning were among the primary threats.
- Heavy rainfall could cause flooding, especially tonight.
- Travel conditions could deteriorate quickly during the strongest storms.
O’Hare Ground Stop Disrupts Sunday Travel
Thunderstorms also affected air travel. A ground stop was in effect at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport until 1:30 p.m., according to the Federal Aviation Administration. Ground stops can delay departing flights and lead to additional disruptions as aircraft and crews are repositioned.
Travelers flying through O’Hare were encouraged to check directly with their airlines for updated departure times and to allow extra time at the airport. Drivers across the Chicago area should also be prepared for sudden reductions in visibility, standing water and slick roads.
Chicago Forecast Calls for More Storm Chances
Sunday’s forecast called for increasing clouds and temperatures in the mid-80s. Although storms were expected to occur in rounds rather than continuously, forecasters cautioned that any individual storm could become severe.
Monday was expected to be partly sunny with highs in the mid-80s, but another chance for strong to severe storms remained in the forecast. The highest potential was expected during the afternoon and evening.
Storm chances continued into Tuesday, which was forecast to be mostly cloudy with temperatures again in the mid-80s. Wednesday could bring additional rain and storms, followed by mostly cloudy conditions Thursday and cooler temperatures in the upper 70s to around 80 degrees.
Some relief was expected Friday, when skies were forecast to become mostly sunny and temperatures were expected to remain in the upper 70s. However, rain chances could return Friday night and Saturday.
Powerful Safety Steps During Severe Weather
Residents should take warnings seriously and move indoors when thunder is heard. The safest location is an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows. People outdoors should avoid open fields, athletic facilities and areas near isolated trees.
Flooding can be especially dangerous after repeated storms. Drivers should never attempt to cross a flooded roadway because water may be deeper or moving faster than it appears. If water covers the road, turn around and find another route.
Residents should also secure loose outdoor items, charge mobile devices and keep weather alerts enabled. Anyone near a storm should remain indoors until the warning has expired and conditions have improved.
The forecast information was provided by FOX 32 Chicago meteorologists, with airport information attributed to the Federal Aviation Administration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a severe thunderstorm warning?
A severe thunderstorm warning means dangerous weather is occurring or imminent. People in the warned area should move indoors immediately and follow updates from the National Weather Service and local officials.
Which areas were affected by the warning?
The warning covered parts of Chicago, Cook County, DuPage County and Kendall County. Watches and other alerts also affected Lake, McHenry and Will counties.
What were the main storm threats?
The main threats included damaging winds, hail, frequent lightning, heavy rain and flooding. Forecasters said the flooding potential could increase Sunday night.
Were flights affected at O’Hare?
Yes. The FAA reported a ground stop at O’Hare International Airport until 1:30 p.m. because of thunderstorms. Travelers should confirm flight information with their airlines.
