A dangerous line of thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes and destructive winds is expected to move across the Chicago metropolitan area Tuesday morning, the National Weather Service warned.
Tornado warnings are scheduled to remain in effect through mid-morning for northwestern Will County, southeastern DuPage County, and southwestern Cook County, with the storm system expected to move east at 48 to 55 mph. A second warning is expected to cover northeastern DuPage and east central Cook counties through 11:15 a.m.
The storms are expected to threaten dozens of communities, including Joliet, Naperville, Bolingbrook, Downers Grove, Chicago, and areas south and east through the city and into the south suburbs. Orland Park, Tinley Park, Oak Lawn, Homer Glen, Mokena, and Frankfort are also in the path, according to the National Weather Service.
“Heavy rainfall may hide this tornado,” the National Weather Service warned. “Do not wait to see or hear the tornado. TAKE COVER NOW!”
The weather service said one tornado may develop over Downers Grove with another possible over Glendale Heights.
A severe thunderstorm warning for central Will, southern DuPage, and southeastern Cook counties warns of wind gusts up to 80 mph—strong enough to overturn mobile homes and cause extensive tree damage and power outages.
“This is an EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SITUATION with tornado like wind speeds expected,” the National Weather Service said.
A flood advisory is also expected through 1:30 p.m. for Cook, DuPage, Kankakee, and Will counties, with rainfall rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour possible. Roads and streets may flood, particularly in poor drainage areas.
Residents in the warning areas are urged to move to a basement or interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and avoid windows. Those outdoors, in mobile homes, or in vehicles should seek the closest substantial shelter and protect themselves from flying debris.
The storms are part of a broader severe weather threat across north-central and northeast Illinois, with damaging winds up to 80 mph and localized flooding expected through the afternoon.