Thunderstorms Rake Chicagoland

Severe weather, flash food warnings issued

It might be a good afternoon to stay indoors for many Illinois residents.

The National Weather Service has issued severe weather and flash flood warnings for large portions of the top half of the state.

Before noon on Sunday, a strong line of storms started moving through the area from the northwest, bringing lightining, heavy rain and some hail.  But those are only the first storms expected.

Meteorologists say thunderstorms were expected through Sunday afternoon and potentially into Monday for counties including Cook, DuPage, Lake and Will. The weather service says up to three inches of rain could fall by Monday. The heavy rain could lead to flash flooding.

Meteorologists issued a severe thunderstorm watch Sunday for counties including Bureau, Hancock, Mercer and Warren. It was expected to remain in effect until 5 p.m.

The weather service also issued a special weather statement for Grundy, Kendall and Will counties forecasting winds at up to 30 mph and nickel-sized hail.

If you snap a weather photo today, please share it with us. Send to isee@nbcchicago.com or post to Twitter or Instagram with #ChicagoGram
Copyright AP - Associated Press
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