Severe Storms Bring Flood Warnings Across Northeastern U.S.

CHICAGO, IL – Severe thunderstorms are sweeping through the Northeast, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and flood warnings. Scattered showers and storms impacted the Chicagoland area Wednesday evening, with concern for heavy downpours and gusty winds.

The National Weather Service issued a Flood Watch effective until 7 a.m. Friday for counties including McHenry, Lake, Kane, DuPage, Cook, and Kendall. Storms may produce rainfall rates high enough to cause flooding, particularly in low-lying areas.

Emily Wahls from the Weather Team cautioned drivers to avoid flooded roads, noting, “If you’re driving and come across a flooded street, do not drive through the water. There’s a high chance your car will stall out.” Tonight, temperatures are expected to drop to around 70 degrees.

Looking ahead, Friday is projected to be hot and humid with highs reaching into the low 90s. Saturday will also be warm, with potential rain despite temperatures cooling slightly to the upper 80s. The region is expected to dry out by Sunday, where skies will become partly cloudy.

Severe storms are also moving through the Interstate 95 corridor, affecting cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. Heavy winds reached up to 70 mph in Kingstown, Maryland, with significant damage reported, including uprooted trees and downed power lines.

In Pennsylvania, flash floods affected major roadways including Interstate 76, while John F. Kennedy Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport experienced delays due to severe weather. Approximately 35,000 people were left without power from the storms.

The National Weather Service has indicated that severe weather conditions could persist, with more thunderstorms expected through the week. The forecast includes the possibility of damaging wind gusts and hail, again raising concerns of flash flooding as remnants of Tropical Depression Chantal linger over the region.

“Expect scattered storms with heavy downpours in the days to come,” meteorologist Mike Woods remarked. Residents are advised to remain vigilant as the storm system continues to develop.