Severe Weather Updates for Chicago Area
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings and Tornado Watch
A Severe Thunderstorm Warning has been issued for LaPorte County, Ind. until 3 a.m., with wind gusts possibly reaching up to 60 miles per hour. Additionally, a Tornado Warning was issued for Lake County, Ind. and has been extended until 1:45 a.m.
Reports of storm damage have been coming in, with Pritchard Road between Perry Road and Harter Road in DuPage County closed due to downed power poles and wires. In Aurora, about 218 customers are without power, and multiple areas have downed wires.
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings and High Winds
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings have been issued for Cook County, DuPage and Lake (IL) counties until 1 a.m., and Kankakee and Will Counties until 1:15 a.m. Wind gusts reaching 70 miles per hour are possible, causing damage to homes, roofs, and more.
Severe storms located along a line from Hanover to Castleton are moving northeast at 40 miles per hour. High winds remain the primary concern for the incoming storms, reaching between 55 and 60 miles per hour, and will continue on Saturday.
Line of Storms Nearing Chicago Area
The line of strong storms is getting closer to the Chicago area, set to arrive around 10 p.m. or 11 p.m. Chicagoland is now under a level 3 severe weather threat, up from level 2 just a day earlier, according to the Storm Prediction Center.
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued from 6:55 p.m. Friday to 2 a.m. Saturday for several counties, including Will County, DeKalb County, Lake County, and Cook County. Storms are still roughly three to four hours away from the Chicago-area.
Severe Weather Threat Tonight
Several weather alerts are in effect Friday night due to strong winds and elevated fire risks. A Wind Advisory is in effect this afternoon through tonight, with gusts reaching 40-50 mph. A Fire Weather Warning is active this afternoon into the evening due to dry conditions and gusty winds.
A High Wind Watch is in place for Saturday morning through mid-afternoon, with potential gusts of 50-60 mph. Non-thunderstorm winds could reach 20-25 mph, with gusts up to 40-50 mph later today, prompting a wind advisory.
Preparation and Safety
Residents are urged to stay vigilant and keep up to date with the latest weather conditions. To receive FOX 32 weather alerts, open the Fox Weather app, click on Settings in the upper right-hand corner, click on FOX 32 weather alerts, and then select which alerts you would like to receive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Chicago area is under a severe weather threat tonight, with strong winds, tornadoes, and thunderstorms expected. It is essential to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current severe weather threat level for the Chicago area?
A: The Chicago area is currently under a level 3 severe weather threat, according to the Storm Prediction Center.
Q: What time are the storms expected to arrive in the Chicago area?
A: The storms are expected to arrive around 10 p.m. or 11 p.m. Friday night.
Q: How can I receive weather alerts from FOX 32?
A: To receive FOX 32 weather alerts, open the Fox Weather app, click on Settings in the upper right-hand corner, click on FOX 32 weather alerts, and then select which alerts you would like to receive.
Q: What should I do in case of a tornado warning?
A: In case of a tornado warning, seek shelter immediately in a basement or storm cellar. If no underground shelter is available, go to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor, away from windows and doors.
