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Key Takeaways
- Severe thunderstorm watches are active across Chicago counties, including Cook, DuPage, and Kane, until 6 p.m. today.
- Expect wind gusts up to 70 mph, quarter-sized hail, and potential tornadoes, primarily this afternoon and evening.
- Recent storms caused roof damage and power outages affecting over 68,000 ComEd customers in Chicago suburbs.
- Conditions are expected to improve overnight with calmer weather and highs in the mid-80s to upper 80s by Tuesday.
- Residents should stay updated via the National Weather Service, secure outdoor belongings, and prepare for possible severe weather.
Table of Contents
Recent Storm Impact and Context
What’s Happening?
Severe thunderstorm watches have been issued across the Chicago area as of Monday, August 18, 2025, signaling a heightened risk of dangerous weather conditions including damaging winds, tornadoes, and large hail. This alert affects multiple counties including Cook, DuPage, Kane, and more, with the watch effective until 6 p.m. tonight[1].
Details
As of today, storms are developing and moving through the region from northwest to southeast, with the National Weather Service highlighting a slight-to-marginal severe storm risk. Forecasts predict wind gusts up to 70 mph, quarter-sized hail, the potential for tornadoes, and heavy rain particularly this afternoon and evening. Temperatures remain high, reaching mid-80s to mid-90s, with humidity pushing the heat index near 100[1].
Recent Storm Impact and Context
These warnings come after a weekend of severe weather that already caused damage in Chicago suburbs. Just days ago, fast-moving storms brought torrential rain, hail up to ping pong ball size, and gusts up to 60 mph, resulting in significant issues like roof damage on buildings and tens of thousands of power outages affecting over 68,000 ComEd customers[2]. Emergency efforts have been ongoing to clean up from those microbursts, and residents are advised to stay alert for continuing hazardous conditions[2].
What to Expect Next
The severe thunderstorm watch persists through this evening, with storms expected to dissipate overnight. By Tuesday, conditions are forecasted to improve with drying skies and highs again in the mid to upper 80s. More comfortable weather, including sunshine, is expected later this week with temperatures falling to around 80 degrees[2].
How Should You Prepare?
- Stay tuned to local weather updates and alerts from the National Weather Service.
- Secure outdoor belongings and be ready for sudden high winds.
- Have an emergency plan in place, especially for sheltering in case of tornado warnings.
- Be cautious while driving as heavy rain and wind can reduce visibility and road safety.
This latest round of severe weather emphasizes the importance of vigilance during this season in Chicago. Staying informed and prepared will help you and your family stay safe during these potentially dangerous thunderstorms.
FAQ
What is the current status of the thunderstorm watch?
The severe thunderstorm watch is active across multiple Chicago counties, including Cook, DuPage, Kane, and others, until 6 p.m. today, indicating a heightened risk of damaging winds, hail, and potential tornadoes.
What damage has occurred recently?
Recent storms caused roof damage, heavy rain, hail up to ping pong ball size, and power outages affecting over 68,000 customers. Emergency crews are actively managing cleanup efforts.
What should residents do to prepare?
Residents should monitor weather alerts, secure outdoor items, prepare emergency plans, and drive cautiously due to heavy rain and gusty winds.