Severe Thunderstorms Strike Chicago Area This Afternoon

CHICAGO, Illinois — Severe thunderstorms are moving into the Chicago area from Wisconsin, threatening damaging winds, hail, and heavy rainfall this afternoon. A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued until 7 p.m. for several counties in Illinois and Indiana, including Cook, DuPage, Kane, McHenry, Kendall, Lake, Will, and DeKalb counties, as well as Porter and Lake counties in Indiana.

Currently, a severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for parts of Cook, DeKalb, Kane, Lake, and McHenry counties until 4:45 p.m. Another warning will remain in effect for parts of Cook and DuPage counties until 5 p.m. Strong storms with wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph began to impact northern Illinois around 3 p.m.

The storms are intensified by the heat in Chicago, where temperatures soared to the mid-90s on Saturday afternoon. Responding to the weather, the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District reported multiple calls regarding downed wires. Officials are advising the public to treat any downed wires as live and dangerous and to keep a safe distance.

Motorists are cautioned not to drive over or attempt to move any downed wires. Forecasters predict that the waves of strong storms will continue through 7 p.m., moving southeast as they progress.

As of now, another round of heavy rain and storms may occur on Sunday morning before the weather calms later in the day. The National Weather Service indicated that the storms could lead to flash flooding in roads and low-lying areas. Residents should remain vigilant and ensure they have multiple means to receive weather alerts.