Chicago, IL – Severe storms swept through northern Illinois overnight, causing significant flooding and road closures. Residents in affected areas are urged to exercise caution as they navigate waterlogged streets and storm debris.
According to the National Weather Service, thunderstorms with gusty winds and heavy rainfall moved through the region between Saturday night and early Sunday morning, bringing up to 2 inches of rain per hour in some areas. The storms produced locally damaging winds and the potential for brief tornadoes, further complicating the situation.
Lake County and Lake Bluff police departments reported numerous road closures due to flooding and downed trees. The Sheridan Road viaduct in Lake Bluff is currently closed, and authorities advise against driving in the area. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office indicated that crews are working diligently to clear fallen trees and restore power and communication lines.
In Woodridge, police warned residents about standing water on several roadways, particularly near construction zones. Motorists are encouraged to use caution and avoid flooded areas.
As of 3:30 AM, nearly 20,000 customers were without power after the storms, with over 340 active outages reported throughout Chicagoland. The majority of these outages are in the western and southern suburbs, including Downers Grove, Lake Villa, Waukegan, and Oak Forest.
The severe weather threat has passed, but local authorities stress the importance of staying informed through weather alerts and adhering to safety guidelines. Residents are advised to remain indoors during thunderstorms and to be prepared for possible flash flooding in low-lying areas.
