Severe storms affected Chicago and parts of Northwest Indiana on Sunday. A Tornado Warning was issued for Kankakee, Newton, and Jasper counties in Indiana, which has since expired. The day featured various weather conditions including fog, rain, high humidity, and thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds.
Weather Impact and Flight Cancellations
The inclement weather prompted a ground stop at O’Hare International Airport. Although the stop was briefly lifted, it was reinstated due to ongoing thunderstorms. In total, Sunday witnessed the cancellation of 54 flights at O’Hare and four at Midway International Airport.
Wind Advisory and Potential Hazards
A Wind Advisory is in effect for the Chicago area, commencing at 6 p.m. Sunday and lasting until 3 p.m. Monday. Sustained winds are expected between 25 and 35 mph, with gusts possibly reaching 50 mph. These strong winds can lead to:
- Isolated power outages
- Downed branches
- Damage to inflatable holiday decorations
Winter Weather Advisory for Northwest Indiana
LaPorte County, along with other regions in Indiana and Southwest Michigan, is under a Winter Weather Advisory. This advisory, effective from midnight Central time Sunday night until midnight Monday night, forecasts lake-effect snow accumulation of 2 to 5 inches, with 6 inches possible in parts of southwest Michigan.
Lake Michigan Storm Warning
A storm warning is in effect for Lake Michigan, alerting to hazardous conditions due to storm-force winds and dangerous waves. These conditions pose significant risks for boating activities.
Drop in Temperatures and Wind Chill
The evening cold front will usher in a sharp decline in temperatures, dropping to the 20s and 30s. Overnight, temperatures may fall to the 10s, bringing wind chills to subzero levels by Monday morning in Chicago. Snow showers are anticipated, potentially leading to a light accumulation in the area.
Temporary Warming Center in Aurora
In response to the forecasted frigid weather, the City of Aurora is opening a temporary overnight warming center at the Financial Empowerment Center, located at 712 S. River St. This center will operate from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. on Sunday through Wednesday nights.
Ongoing Cold Weather Ahead
The week ahead appears to maintain below-average temperatures as winter conditions fully return to Chicago and the surrounding areas.
Midwest Weather Conditions
While Chicago faced harsh weather, Wisconsin and Michigan were under more severe conditions. Most of Wisconsin north of Milwaukee and Madison was under a winter storm warning, anticipating snow accumulations of 3 to 6 inches. The Upper Peninsula of Michigan faced a blizzard warning, expecting between 9 and 19 inches of snow.
