Chicago, Illinois – Commuters in northeast Illinois and northwest Indiana should prepare for isolated thunderstorms with brief downpours and gusty winds through 4 p.m. CDT Wednesday, as slow-moving storms impact the region. The storms are expected to cause localized ponding on roads, particularly from Chicago to Aurora, Joliet, and Gary, making travel hazardous.
Weather Conditions and Potential Hazards
The National Weather Service in Chicago reports that spotty showers and thunderstorms will continue throughout the afternoon, especially near the lake breeze. The Chicago metro area and surrounding regions, including Rockford, Waukegan, Aurora, and Joliet, are at higher risk for frequent lightning, torrential rain, and possible minor flooding. While these storms are not expected to be severe, they could still bring hazardous driving conditions with gusty winds up to 40 mph and poor visibility due to heavy rain.
Safety Tips for Residents and Commuters
Stay indoors if you hear thunder and avoid going outside during active storms.
Use caution when driving in heavy rain, as roadways may become flooded quickly.
Avoid flooded roads and stay alert for potential traffic hazards.
Keep mobile devices charged in case of power outages, and monitor local weather updates for changing conditions.
Slow-moving storms could lead to prolonged downpours in the same areas, increasing the risk of localized flooding.
Outlook for the Rest of the Day
While showers should gradually taper after sunset, the National Weather Service warns that additional advisories could be issued if storms redevelop later tonight. Residents are encouraged to stay weather-aware and be prepared for rapid changes in conditions.
