Damaging Chicago-Area Storms Bring High Winds, Torrential Rain

The National Weather Service warns heavy rain could sharply reduce visibility for motorists. Flash flooding is also possible.

A strong storm system that moved into the Chicago area Tuesday produced 40 mph wind gusts, brief torrential rainfall, frequent lightning and pea-size hail, causing damage in several areas. 

The storms affected parts of Kendall, DuPage, Will, Kane and Cook counties. 

Weather models showed the storms moving along a line from near Sugar Grove to Minooka at a rate of about 30 mph. Up to 50 percent of the Chicago area was expected to be affected by the storms, including multiple suburbs.

There were reports of cloud-to-ground lightning during the storms, and residents were advised to shelter inside.

The storms tore a roof off an apartment building in unincorporated Willowbrook and downed trees in a number of Chicago suburbs and city neighborhoods. 

Occasional, isolated showers and thunderstorms were expected again Tuesday evening.

A marginal risk for strong to severe storms is possible Wednesday with scattered showers and storms likely in the afternoon and evening.

The next chance for rain comes Friday heading into the weekend.

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