CHICAGO — Severe thunderstorms rolled through the northern and northwestern suburbs of Chicago on Sunday evening, triggering multiple warnings and causing hazardous conditions across parts of Lake and Cook counties.
The National Weather Service issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for northeastern Lake County as storms moved northward at approximately 15 mph, packing wind gusts up to 60 mph and penny-sized hail.
Storm Track and Impacted Areas
One of the strongest cells was tracked near Wadsworth and Gurnee, where residents reported sideways rain and intense wind activity. Video footage from the Gurnee Mills mall parking lot showed rain whipping across the pavement, prompting safety concerns.
An earlier warning had also been issued for areas stretching from Lake Forest down to Park Ridge and Niles, affecting communities along the North Shore and northwest Cook County. That warning expired by 8:45 p.m., but not before delivering significant gusts and brief downpours.
Wind Damage and Hail Threats
The storm brought risks of damage to roofs, siding, and trees, especially in areas that experienced the brunt of the high winds. No major structural damage or power outages had been confirmed as of late Sunday night, though local officials continue to assess the impact.
Marine Warning on Lake Michigan
While the thunderstorm warning was eventually lifted, a Special Marine Warning remained in effect for Lake Michigan from Winthrop Harbor to Wilmette Harbor. The National Weather Service urged all boaters to seek safe harbor immediately, as dangerous winds and waves threatened small craft.
Forecast Outlook and Preparedness
The storms were part of a larger weather system impacting the Great Lakes region. While the Sunday night warnings have expired, forecasters caution that isolated thunderstorms could return later in the week. Residents are advised to stay updated on alerts, particularly those in flood-prone or tree-dense areas.
Stay Safe During Severe Weather
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Monitor alerts from weather.gov or local meteorologists
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Secure outdoor items before storms hit
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Avoid boating or swimming in Lake Michigan during active warnings
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Seek shelter indoors and avoid windows during wind/hail threats
Did your suburb experience strong winds or hail during Sunday night’s storm? Share your storm photos and experiences in the comments at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
