Storms Weakening

The severe storms making their march eastward appear to be breaking up as they head toward Chicago.

Still, a tornado watch remains in effect until about 1 a.m. for McHenry, Kane, Kendall and Grundy counties and points west.

This comes after a day when the mercury soared to about 30 degrees above normal.

The really big storms should avoid the city, striking to the west and north into Wisconsin, but the chance for dangerous conditions remains.

City emergency officials urged everyone to be prepared.

"The severe weather system, if it hits our area, could bring with it damaging winds, large hail in excess of two inches and the potential of violent tornado activity,” said Jose Santiago, the Executive Director of Chicago's Office of Emergency Management and Communications.

 “Our message this morning is simple: Chicago residents need to be aware that we could experience severe weather, and take precautions now, before the severe weather arrives,” Santiago said.

If you have the chance, you can help prevent the street in front of your home from flooding by removing debris from around sewers before the storm arrives so water can drain.

Santiago encouraged people to be prepared and families should have an emergency plan in place. The city may activate the emergency warning system, which includes sirens, Santiago said. The sound of the siren will go up and down repeatedly for three minutes. If people hear the sound while outside, they should get inside immediately. Once the threat has passed, the sirens would be a steady sound for three minutes.

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