Following a wave of storms that brought heavy rain earlier in the day, ABC7 meteorologists report that there is an increased probability of tornadoes in the majority of the Chicago region on Wednesday afternoon.
McHenry and Kane counties are under a tornado warning until 6:45 p.m., while DuPage and Cook counties have the same warnings until 7 p.m. Due to severe rain earlier in the day, hundreds of flights have already been canceled; additional effects may be noticed as the day goes on.
Also Read: Chicago rains: Over 7,000 left without power as 2 train lines shut due to flooding
Watch the video of the Chicago tornado sirens sounding off here:
According to the weather service, between Interstate 80 and the Wisconsin-Illinois border is where tornadoes are most likely to occur. Strong to severe storms are brewing in northwest Illinois and are moving at a speed of around 30 mph, according to the meteorological service.
Reportedly, storms may also bring spells of heavy rain, which may cause further flash floods, particularly in the Chicago metro area. The weather service also stated that metropolitan areas and places with poor drainage are particularly susceptible to flooding as creeks and streams may overflow their banks. If severe storms should come, the weather service said that the risk of flash flooding in Central Cook County is the greatest.
The City of Chicago released a statement saying, “OEMC will continue to coordinate efforts with the Department of Water Management, Chicago Department of Transportation, Streets and Sanitation, Department of Assets and Information Services, Chicago Transit Authority, and other agencies in response and mitigation to any emergency situations. The Department of Water Management will have all available flood mitigation equipment on the streets and will prioritize assistance to areas where there is a high level of 311 water complaints.
In order to lessen the impact on the city’s wastewater system, officials have also urged residents to refrain from taking extra showers, doing laundry, or doing dishes during the storm. To report flooding from viaducts, water in basements, and standing water in the streets, residents should dial 311 or use the CHI311 app.
