Chicago, Illinois – A severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect for much of northern Illinois, including the Chicago metro area, until 7 p.m. Saturday as strong storms track across the region.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, the watch covers Boone, Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, Ogle, Stephenson, Will, and Winnebago counties, as well as adjacent waters of Lake Michigan. Forecasters warn that storms may produce damaging winds, large hail, and dangerous lightning.
Residents across Chicago, Rockford, and the northern suburbs are urged to prepare for rapidly changing weather. The Illinois Department of Transportation cautions drivers to avoid travel during downpours where visibility may drop quickly, and winds could bring down tree limbs onto roadways. Lakefront communities should also be alert as boaters face high risks on Lake Michigan, with conditions deteriorating quickly as storms move over open waters.
Emergency managers recommend securing outdoor items, charging electronic devices in case of outages, and monitoring NOAA Weather Radio or local media for warnings.
The severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect until 7 p.m. Saturday, and additional watches or warnings could be issued if storms intensify.
