CHICAGO — A flash flood warning remains in effect across much of the Chicago metropolitan area Thursday night as strong thunderstorms push through the region, bringing intense rainfall, gusty winds, and rapidly deteriorating road conditions.
The warning covers large portions of Cook County, DuPage County, and Will County, including Chicago, Naperville, and Cicero. According to the National Weather Service, flooding conditions could develop quickly as heavy rain falls over areas that have already received significant precipitation.
Heavy Rainfall and Flash Flood Risk
Storms moving through the region have been producing rainfall rates ranging from half an inch to as much as two inches per hour, resulting in ponding on roadways and flooding in low-lying and poorly drained areas.
By the time warnings were issued, between 0.5 and 1.5 inches of rain had already fallen in some locations, significantly increasing the risk of flash flooding near creeks, drainage ditches, viaducts, and urban streets.
Warnings and Advisories in Effect
- Flash Flood Warning for parts of Cook, DuPage, and Will counties through late Thursday evening
- Flood Advisories for Kane, Kendall, Grundy, and northern Will counties into the late evening hours
- Additional flood advisories remain active for central Cook and DuPage counties as storms continue moving east
Drivers are urged to avoid flooded streets and intersections, especially after dark when water-covered roadways can be difficult to see.
Damaging Winds Possible with Storm Line
In addition to heavy rain, forecasters say a thin line of storms could produce isolated damaging wind gusts, particularly in areas near and south of Interstate 80.
The Storm Prediction Center has placed parts of northern Illinois under a marginal risk for severe weather, with wind gusts being the primary concern rather than tornadoes.
Storms Exit, Cooler Air Moves In
The strongest storms are expected to exit the Chicago area from west to east late Thursday night. Rain will taper off as a cold front sweeps through, bringing noticeably cooler temperatures for Friday.
Temperatures are expected to drop from the upper 50s late Thursday night into the mid 40s by Friday morning, with cooler daytime highs expected.
Weekend Outlook: Rain, Snow, and Cold
Another weather system is forecast to arrive Saturday, bringing a mix of rain and snow across the region. Daytime highs will likely reach the upper 30s to near 40 degrees before falling rapidly Saturday night.
By Saturday evening, temperatures could dip to around 30 degrees, with scattered snow showers possible during the evening and overnight hours. Gusty winds may push wind chills into the teens late Saturday night.
Skies are expected to dry out on Sunday, with partly sunny conditions and highs in the lower 30s.
Safety Reminders
Emergency officials remind residents to never attempt to drive through flooded roadways and to remain alert for rapidly changing conditions.
For more regional weather and safety updates, read: How authorities respond when extreme weather forces closures and safety alerts .
