Chicago, IL – Drivers across the Chicago metro could encounter sudden downpours, damaging wind gusts and bursts of hail Tuesday afternoon as a Severe Thunderstorm Watch stretches across northeast Illinois and into northwest Indiana.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, the watch remains in effect until 5 p.m. Tuesday and covers Cook, DuPage, Lake, Will and Kankakee counties in Illinois along with Lake, Porter and LaPorte counties in Indiana. Storms developing through the afternoon may produce hail up to 2 inches in diameter, wind gusts near 70 mph and frequent lightning.
The watch area includes the Chicago metro, Joliet, Waukegan and Gary, Indiana. Heavy storms could rapidly impact major travel corridors including Interstates 90, 94, 55 and 65, where strong wind bursts may reduce visibility and make driving difficult.
Emergency managers advise residents to secure loose outdoor items and remain indoors when storms approach. Lightning poses a major risk for anyone outside, particularly along Lake Michigan shorelines and open parks.
School activities and outdoor construction projects may also see disruptions if storms intensify during the afternoon commute window.
Additional watches or warnings could follow if storms strengthen. Residents should monitor alerts through the evening and be ready to move indoors quickly if warnings are issued.
