Chicago Flooding: Torrential Downpour Causes Mess in Chicago Area

CHICAGO – Heavy rain swept through the Chicago area Thursday night, flooding streets, stranding cars and setting a daily rainfall record as crews and drivers dealt with the aftermath Friday morning.

What We Know

Torrential rain moved through the Chicago area Thursday night, leaving standing water on roads and causing widespread travel issues. Cicero Avenue was among the hardest-hit areas, with flooding reported near 31st Street.

Video from the scene showed cars pushing through deep water, creating waves as some drivers tried to get through. Several vehicles became stuck and had to be pushed or towed out. By Friday morning, much of the water had receded, but ponding remained in many spots.

In Chicago, strong winds also caused damage. A traffic light was knocked down at Cicero Avenue and 55th Street and landed on a moving car. No serious injuries were reported, though the car’s windshield was cracked.

Other reported issues included a roof collapse at a vacant building and a flooded loading dock.

By the Numbers

• 1.92 inches of rain fell at O’Hare International Airport on Thursday.
• That set a daily rainfall record for the date.
• It also ranks as the third-wettest January day on record in Chicago.

What They’re Saying

“My car just got stuck, me and my friends had to pull it out the water. Thankfully my car still drives, I ain’t even really tripping,” one driver said after getting through flooded Cicero Avenue.

What’s Next

A flood advisory remained in effect Friday morning for much of Cook, DuPage and northern Will counties until 8:30 a.m.

Drivers were urged to use caution as lingering ponding could still slow the morning commute.

Source

The information in this story was obtained and reported by FOX Chicago’s Roseanne Tellez.

Conclusion

The severe weather that hit the Chicago area on Thursday night caused significant disruptions to daily life, with flooding and strong winds causing damage and travel issues. While the worst of the weather has passed, drivers are still being urged to use caution as they navigate the roads.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much rain fell in the Chicago area on Thursday?

A: 1.92 inches of rain fell at O’Hare International Airport on Thursday, setting a daily rainfall record for the date.

Q: Were there any injuries reported due to the flooding?

A: No serious injuries were reported, although a car’s windshield was cracked when a traffic light fell on it.

Q: What areas were most affected by the flooding?

A: Cicero Avenue was among the hardest-hit areas, with flooding reported near 31st Street.

Q: Is the flooding still a concern?

A: While the worst of the flooding has passed, drivers are still being urged to use caution as lingering ponding could still slow the morning commute.