Image Source: ABC7 Chicago
Tornado damage is being reported across northern Illinois as the Chicago area prepares for another round of dangerous storms. Three tornadoes were confirmed in LaSalle and Lee counties after storms moved through Sunday night and early Monday morning, leaving overturned rail cars, downed trees, flooding and power outages.
The National Weather Service confirmed that two tornadoes struck LaSalle County. A third tornado touched down east of Amboy in Lee County. Officials and residents are now cleaning up while forecasters warn that another powerful storm complex could cross the region Tuesday.
Powerful Tornadoes Strike LaSalle and Lee Counties
One of the strongest areas of damage was reported near Ransom, Illinois, roughly 90 miles southwest of Chicago. Chopper 7 footage showed extensive destruction, including a long freight train knocked onto its side during the storm.
The National Weather Service determined that the Ransom tornado was an EF1 tornado, with peak winds estimated at up to 100 mph. Another EF1 tornado caused damage north of Streator, with maximum estimated winds of 95 mph.
The third tornado hit east of Amboy in Lee County. The National Weather Service estimated that storm’s peak winds at approximately 90 mph. The series of tornadoes followed two rounds of thunderstorms that swept through the wider Chicago region overnight.
Communities Face a Critical New Storm Threat
While some areas experienced a break in the weather Monday evening, that pause is not expected to last. Forecasters said rain could continue into Tuesday morning, followed by a heightened risk of severe weather around midday.
Much of the Chicago area was placed under a Level 3 out of 5 risk for severe weather Tuesday. The most concerning period is expected between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., when a large storm complex may move across the region.
- Damaging wind gusts are expected to be the primary threat.
- Heavy rainfall could lead to additional flooding.
- Residents should remain alert for rapidly changing conditions.
- Severe weather warnings may be issued with little notice.
A few isolated storms could develop overnight, but forecasters expected those storms to remain below severe limits. Even so, saturated ground and already weakened trees could increase the risk of additional damage.
Cleanup Continues Across the Chicago Area
Sunday’s storms left a trail of damage throughout Chicago and the suburbs. Residents reported flooding, fallen trees, blocked roads and scattered power outages following the severe weather.
In Chicago’s Andersonville neighborhood, a tree fell onto parked cars near Catalpa Avenue and Clark Street Monday morning. Crews removed the debris from the roadway by late morning, but neighbors said the incident was another reminder of the powerful storms that have affected the area this summer.
Flooding also created difficult travel conditions in Oak Lawn. Drivers encountered water-covered roads, while officials urged motorists not to enter flooded areas where the depth and condition of the roadway could be uncertain.
In north suburban Mundelein, a car went into a retention pond. It was not immediately clear whether weather caused the crash, although the roads appeared slick at the time.
Northwest Indiana also experienced heavy rain and strong winds. In Bartlett, a lightning strike set a tree on fire in the 1300-block of Deerfield Lane. The strike also damaged a nearby underground natural gas main, adding another concern for emergency crews and utility workers.
What Residents Should Do Before Storms Arrive
Residents across the Chicago area should review their emergency plans before Tuesday’s storms arrive. Weather alerts can provide only a short window to take shelter, especially when storms are moving quickly.
- Bring patio furniture, umbrellas and loose outdoor items indoors.
- Charge mobile phones and keep flashlights available.
- Stay away from windows during severe thunderstorms.
- Move to a sturdy interior room on the lowest possible level if a tornado warning is issued.
- Never drive through standing or moving floodwater.
People should also monitor official weather updates and be prepared for conditions to change throughout the day. A tornado can form quickly within a line of severe thunderstorms, while strong straight-line winds can cause damage similar to a tornado.
The Chicago area remains vulnerable after repeated rounds of storms, saturated soil and widespread debris. Residents in LaSalle, Lee and surrounding counties are continuing cleanup as another significant weather threat approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Tornadoes
How many tornadoes were confirmed in northern Illinois?
The National Weather Service confirmed three tornadoes: two in LaSalle County and one in Lee County near Amboy.
How strong was the tornado near Ransom?
The tornado near Ransom was rated EF1, with estimated peak winds of up to 100 mph.
When is the next severe weather threat expected?
The most significant threat is expected Tuesday between approximately 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., when a large storm complex may cross the region.
What are the main threats from Tuesday’s storms?
Forecasters said damaging winds and heavy rainfall are the primary concerns. Flooding and additional severe storms are also possible.
