Severe Storms Expected Across Chicago Area This Weekend

CHICAGO, IL — Severe storms are forecasted for Chicago and surrounding areas this weekend, with potential for heavy rain, damaging winds, and hail. The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch for parts of the region until 10 p.m. Friday.

Thursday night, storms swept through the Chicagoland area, bringing strong winds and heavy rain. As a result, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning was issued for Lake County until 9:15 p.m. Fans at Soldier Field awaiting the Beyoncé concert were sent back inside due to severe weather. The concert, originally scheduled for 7 p.m., was delayed as storms passed through.

Warnings for severe thunderstorms have extended across multiple counties, including Cook, DuPage, and McHenry, with wind gusts potentially reaching 60 mph and quarter-sized hail reported. Passengers at O'Hare International Airport faced significant delays, averaging 124 minutes for outgoing flights due to turbulent weather.

The threat of severe storms will continue into Friday, with the possibility of conditions worsening throughout the day. The Storm Prediction Center has placed the area under a Level 3 enhanced risk for severe storms on the 5-point scale. People are advised to stay informed about changing weather conditions.

As temperatures soared into the upper 80s and low 90s, the combination of heat and humidity sets the stage for storm development. The evening is expected to see more storm activity as the cold front interacts with warm, moist air from the Gulf. Concerns remain high for supercells that could produce tornadoes rated EF-2 or stronger, along with large hail and hurricane-force wind gusts.

Residents are encouraged to prepare for potential severe weather and to consider downloading weather apps for real-time alerts. The stormy forecast raises safety reminders for driving in hail and severe weather conditions.