Chicago Braces for Severe Weather with Thunderstorm Warnings and Watches in Effect

Chicago is bracing for severe weather conditions, with a Severe Thunderstorm Warning in effect for Cook County until 3:15 p.m. and a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for Kane, Lake, and McHenry counties until 5 p.m. today. The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of the area under a Level 2 risk for severe weather. Amid these conditions, the Federal Aviation Administration temporarily issued a ground stop at O’Hare Airport due to thunderstorms, causing delays even after the stop was lifted just before 1 p.m.

Meteorologists anticipate scattered storms, particularly to the north of the city, with the potential for additional thunderstorms developing in the south later in the evening. Concerns with these storms include wind, hail, and heavy downpours. The forecast suggests a heightened threat for severe weather on Tuesday evening and night, with temperatures expected to reach the upper 80s and 90s, potentially intensifying storm conditions.

Tuesday also carries a tornado risk, varying across different parts of the Chicago area, with the far west suburbs facing a 10% risk. The day is expected to be dry, warm, and muggy until a cluster of thunderstorms moves into the area between 7 p.m. and 1 a.m., bringing the potential for large hail, high winds, and possibly a brief tornado. The weather is expected to improve from Wednesday through Friday, with rain forecasted for the Memorial Day Weekend.