Chicago, Illinois – A severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect for much of northern Illinois, including the Chicago metropolitan area, until 7 p.m. Saturday as strong storms move through the area.
The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center has issued a watch for Boone, Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, Ogle, Stephenson, Will, and Winnebago counties, as well as Lake Michigan’s adjacent waters. Storms are expected to bring damaging winds, large hail, and dangerous lightning.
Residents in Chicago, Rockford, and the northern suburbs should prepare for rapidly changing weather.
The Illinois Department of Transportation advises drivers to avoid travel during downpours, as visibility may be reduced quickly and winds may bring down tree limbs onto roadways.
Lakefront communities should also be aware that boaters face significant risks on Lake Michigan, with conditions deteriorating quickly as storms move across open waters.
Emergency managers recommend securing outdoor items, charging electronic devices in case of outages, and listening to NOAA Weather Radio or local media for warnings.
The severe thunderstorm watch is in effect until 7 p.m. Saturday, and additional watches or warnings may be issued if storms intensify.
