Chicago, Illinois – Damaging winds and hail are hitting parts of DuPage and Cook Counties this afternoon as a fast-moving thunderstorm pushes through the western suburbs into Chicago’s South and West Sides.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning remains in effect until 4:15 p.m. CDT for east-central Cook County and southeastern DuPage County. Radar shows a storm producing 60 mph wind gusts and quarter-size hail currently tracking east at 30 mph.
The storm began around Oak Brook and Westmont and is moving into densely populated neighborhoods including Oak Lawn, Hyde Park, Englewood, and Bridgeport. Drivers on I-55 and I-294 should expect sudden wind shifts and possible debris. Hail may damage parked cars and roofs, while downed branches could affect power lines and travel.
Residents in areas like Darien, Burr Ridge, and Westchester should seek sturdy shelter away from windows. The NWS advises all outdoor activities be suspended until the storm passes.
This storm follows a week of unsettled weather across Illinois and may lead to additional advisories later today. Severe conditions are expected to ease after 4:15 p.m., but residents should remain alert for updates.
