Good afternoon neighbors,

The National Weather Service (NWS) is reporting that severe thunderstorms are expected to develop tonight and continue through this evening, ending overnight for areas southeast of Interstate 80. Periods of rain will continue on Wednesday morning, ending from northwest to southeast.

A Severe Thunderstorm WATCH means be prepared. Stay informed & be ready to act, because severe thunderstorms are possible. A Severe Thunderstorm WARNING means take action! Take shelter in a strong building, because severe weather is occurring/will occur shortly.

Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) is monitoring weather conditions with the National Weather Service in Chicago and coordinating efforts with city departments and other agencies through the Operations Center to respond to the storms affecting the Chicago area today.

The City of Chicago urges motorists to use caution and avoid driving through standing water on streets, viaducts and low-lying areas. Residents can visit 311.chicago.gov, use the CHI311 app or dial 3-1-1 to report water in your basement, standing water in the street or viaduct flooding.

Please see the graphics and safety tips below in advance of tonight's storm.

Stay safe this evening!

Alderwoman Maria Hadden

Storms develop quickly and can occur with little to no warning. Heavy winds and lightning caused by storms can cause extended power outages, uprooted trees, landslides, and downed or broken utility lines. Additionally, heavy rains can cause flash floods.

While watching the weather, listen for:

• Tornado Watch
• Tornado Warning
• Severe Thunderstorm
• Watch Severe Thunderstorm Warning

During the storm:

• Avoid handling metal, electrical equipment, telephones, bathtubs, water faucets, and sinks, because electric current from lightning can travel through wires and pipes
• If you are outside, take cover in a stable facility. Avoid taking shelter under trees
• Tune in to local TV/radio channels for emergency advisories and instructions
• Avoid walking through water that has seeped in your home - it may contain hazardous materials
• If you are asked to evacuate your home, disconnect all electrical appliances
• Call 311 to report fallen trees or tree limbs, or clogged catch basins
• Call 311 to report flooded streets
• Avoid downed power lines and broken gas lines. Report them to 311

After the storm:

• Assess your immediate environment
• Report fallen trees, flooded streets, or damaged public utilities to the proper department
• Stay tuned to local weather stations for updated information