Chicago, Ill. – Thunderstorms are dumping torrential rain over southeastern Cook County and central Will County this afternoon, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a Flash Flood Warning until 6 p.m. Tuesday. Some areas could see water rise rapidly in streets, underpasses, and low-lying neighborhoods.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, radar and automated rain gauges detected rainfall rates of 2–3 inches per hour moving into spots that already picked up more than an inch earlier today. As much as 2 inches have already fallen, with more expected in the next hour, increasing the risk for rapid-onset flooding in urban and suburban areas.
Communities under the warning include Chicago, Hammond, Orland Park, Tinley Park, Oak Lawn, Calumet City, Chicago Heights, Roseland, Englewood, and South Shore. Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roadways and turn around if they encounter high water, as flooding can be deeper and faster-moving than it appears.
The heaviest rainfall is expected to taper after 6 p.m., though standing water and localized flooding could linger into the evening commute. Additional flood advisories or warnings may be issued if storms redevelop.
