Chicago, Illinois – Blowing dust continues to blanket northern Illinois Thursday evening, bringing dangerous travel conditions and near-zero visibility across the Chicago metro as winds gust up to 60 mph.
According to the National Weather Service, the dust storm will linger through 9 p.m. CDT, impacting a wide swath of northeast Illinois. Areas under the greatest threat include Joliet, Elgin, Ottawa, and parts of northwest Indiana, where reduced visibility from blowing dust is creating hazardous driving conditions. Thunderstorm activity is also increasing, with isolated storms capable of producing damaging winds and lightning strikes.
The weather service urges residents to stay indoors if possible and avoid travel until the storm subsides. If you must drive, reduce speed, use headlights, and keep extra distance from other vehicles. Outdoor activities should be postponed due to flying debris risks and poor air quality.
Communities from Rockford to Valparaiso remain under alert as this unusual spring dust event—driven by dry conditions and strong winds—continues its sweep through the region.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve after 9 p.m., but additional warnings may be issued if thunderstorms strengthen or wind gusts persist.
