Introduction
I was scrolling through updates this afternoon when the National Weather Service (NWS) pushed a new advisory, and honestly, it’s the kind of alert that makes you stop mid-scroll. A Severe Thunderstorm Warning has been issued for parts of Illinois and Indiana, and the details are pretty concerning. From quarter-sized hail to winds gusting over 60 mph, this isn’t one of those light summer showers.
Chicago and the surrounding areas are bracing for a tricky mix of dangerous heat and strong storms. Let’s walk through what’s happening right now, what’s already been reported, and what you and I can expect in the next few days.
Counties Under the Severe Thunderstorm Watch
According to the National Weather Service, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect until 7 p.m. CDT. Here are the counties included:
| State | Counties Under Watch |
|---|---|
| Illinois | Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, Will |
| Indiana | Multiple warnings issued including Lowell, Rensselaer, and Roselawn areas |
The scope is wide. If you live in one of these counties, keep an eye on the skies—and more importantly—keep an ear on weather alerts.
Live Updates and Warnings Timeline
Here’s a quick look at the rolling updates from the NWS:
| Time (CDT) | Area Affected | Type of Alert | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7:10 p.m. | Rochelle, Hillcrest, Malta (IL) | Thunderstorm | Until 8:00 p.m. |
| 6:47 p.m. | Lowell, Rensselaer, Roselawn (IN) | Thunderstorm | Until 7:30 p.m. |
| 5:39 p.m. | Joliet, Tinley Park, Chicago Heights (IL) | Thunderstorm | Until 6:30 p.m. |
| 5:13 p.m. | Naperville, Downers Grove, Woodridge (IL) | Flash Flood | Until 7:30 p.m. |
This list shows how widespread and fast-moving these storms are. Warnings overlap, meaning even short trips outside can get dangerous quickly.
Heat Index and Temperature Risks
It isn’t just storms; it’s heat. Temperatures soared into the 90s today, with some suburbs feeling closer to 110°F.
The National Weather Service even flagged an Elevated Excessive Heat Risk for areas south of I-80. For context, temps right now are about 10 degrees above normal for mid-August in Chicago.
That heat doesn’t just make you sweat—it adds fuel to the storms. Hot, unstable air is like rocket fuel for thunderstorm development.
Storm Impacts on Illinois and Indiana
So far, reports highlight:
- Hail: Up to quarter-sized chunks of ice damaging vehicles and roofs.
- Winds: Gusts reaching 60 mph, strong enough to topple trees and power lines.
- Power Outages: Thousands left without electricity, especially in suburban zones.
- Flash Flooding: Rapid rain accumulation in areas like Naperville and Woodridge.
And honestly, it’s not just the property damage. Anyone out driving or stuck outdoors during these bursts faces serious risks.
What to Expect in the Coming Days
Now, here’s the part where the forecast gives us a little breather:
- Sunday: Temperatures drop into the low 80s. Much more bearable.
- Monday: The heat makes a comeback with another round of storms possible.
So yeah, it’s a short reprieve followed by yet another surge. Welcome to Midwest weather—where relief never sticks around for long.
Safety Tips During Severe Thunderstorms
I’ve lived in the Midwest long enough to know storms can flip from a dark sky to danger mode in minutes. Here are a few reminders:
- Stay indoors when warnings are active.
- Avoid windows during high winds.
- Charge devices in case of power outages.
- Don’t drive through flooded roads (you’d be surprised how many cars get stuck).
- Secure outdoor furniture—those patio chairs become missiles in 60 mph winds.
FAQs
It remains active until 7 p.m. CDT, but warnings may extend beyond for specific counties.
That’s strong enough to uproot small trees, knock down branches, and damage weak structures like sheds or signs.
Yes. The high heat index provides unstable air, which helps fuel stronger storms.
Head to higher ground immediately. Don’t drive through water-covered roads—it only takes a foot of water to move a car.
Sunday offers relief with cooler temps in the low 80s, but Monday brings back heat and storm chances.
Conclusion
When I look at this storm system, it feels like the Midwest is facing a two-punch combo: dangerous heat mixed with intense thunderstorms. For those of us in Illinois and Indiana, tonight is a reminder of just how quickly summer weather can turn risky.
Stay safe, stay indoors, and keep checking reliable updates from the National Weather Service and local outlets like Fox 32 Chicago.
