Chicago, IL – A severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect for Chicago and surrounding areas until 2 a.m. CDT Saturday, with strong storms expected to impact multiple counties across northern Illinois. The National Weather Service issued the alert Friday evening, warning residents of the potential for damaging winds, hail, and heavy rainfall.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, the watch includes 15 counties, covering major cities such as Rockford, Aurora, Joliet, and Waukegan. The affected areas span across Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kankakee, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties in northeast Illinois, as well as Boone, DeKalb, La Salle, Lee, Ogle, and Winnebago counties in north-central Illinois.
In addition to inland impacts, the severe thunderstorm watch extends to adjacent coastal waters, affecting zones from Winthrop Harbor to Calumet Harbor. Boaters in these areas are advised to exercise caution as strong winds and choppy waters may create hazardous conditions.
Residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions, including securing outdoor objects and seeking shelter if warnings escalate. The storms are expected to move out of the region by early Saturday morning. The National Weather Service advises monitoring local forecasts for updates as conditions develop.
