It’s been a whacky couple of days in Chicago as far as weather is concerned, with temperatures spiking to 70 degrees yesterday.
Well buckle up Chicago, because it’s only going to get crazier from here—tonight the Windy City could see intense thunderstorms, hail, and even the potential for a tornado!
Here’s a breakdown of the forecast.
Strong storms, 2-inch hail tonight in Chicago
A hazardous weather outlook is currently in effect for Cook County and the surrounding Chicagoland region, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
The NWS predicts severe thunderstorms will move in late this afternoon and last throughout the evening. Large hail (up to 2 inches in diameter) and damaging winds are possible north of the I-80 corridor.
Additionally, heavy rainfall will last into Wednesday morning, and could lead to localized flooding, according to the NWS.
The overall chance of precipitation Tuesday night is 90%, with rainfall totals up to half an inch possible.
Staying safe
In the advent that dangerous conditions arise, here are a few tips to keep you safe and secure, courtesy of the Chicago Office of Emergency Management & Communications.
- Thunderstorms
- Take cover immediately in a stable environment.
- Avoid handling electrical equipment as lightning currents can travel through pipes and wiring.
- If you are outside, avoid taking shelter under trees.
- Report downed power lines and broken gas lines to 311.
- Tornado threat
- Immediately seek shelter and shield your body with furniture, and blankets.
- Flood
- Seek higher ground and avoid flash flood areas like canals, streams, etc.
- Avoid going outdoors.
- If you must venture outdoors, do not attempt to walk through moving water.