Chicago

Severe Storms Possible Tonight, Bringing Threat of Hail, Tornadoes

Some of these storms could dump moderate to heavy rain on the area as winds rise to near 60 mph. A few isolated tornadoes are possible

Thunderstorms, potentially strong to severe, are expected in the Chicago area Thursday evening, bringing with them the threat of hail, damaging winds and even isolated tornadoes.

After a blustery and cold morning, conditions are expected to turn windy and warm for the afternoon with a few showers possible. As the evening hours arrive, scattered thunderstorms will likely develop.

Some of these storms could dump moderate to heavy rain on the area and winds could gust to 60 mph. A few isolated tornadoes are possible.

Temperature highs will vary across the area from the mid-50s in far northern counties to the mid-70s south of Interstate 80.

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Much of the Chicago area is under a moderate risk for severe weather, with areas southwest of the city under the higher slight risk category.

A Wind Advisory ends at noon in McHenry, DeKalb and Kane counties, but as that advisory ends, another begins in Kendall, Grundy, Will and Kankakee counties in Illinois and Porter, Newton and Jasper counties in northwest Indiana.

The wind could potentially make it difficult for commuters on north and south roads and loose objects could be blow around. Waves could reach between 8 and 11 feet at shorelines in Lake and Cook counties.

Minor flooding is possible—including parts of Chicago’s lakefront bike path.

Flooded areas should be avoided as well as piers, jetties and breakwalls.

Lightweight objects should be brought indoors or secured to the ground.

The thunderstorms are expected to sweep across the city around midnight, traveling through northwest Indiana as they fade overnight.

Winds continue Friday as temperatures drop into the mid-40s for most, but stay in the mid-50s in northwest Indiana.

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