by Chicago, IL — A dire weather emergency has been declared for Chicago as the National Weather Service (NWS) issues an urgent tornado and severe thunderstorm warning for the city and surrounding counties. Residents are being urged to take immediate shelter as life-threatening conditions rapidly unfold.
The warning, issued Saturday afternoon, comes amid a fast-developing storm system moving northeast across Illinois, packing dangerous winds, intense lightning, and the real threat of tornado touchdowns.
“This is not a drill,” warned NWS meteorologist Jessica Warner. “We are tracking active tornado cells that are capable of producing widespread damage. People in the path should move to basements or interior rooms away from windows.”
⚠️ Areas at Immediate Risk:
- Downtown Chicago
- Cicero
- Oak Lawn
- Evanston
- Schaumburg
- Surrounding suburbs
Radar indicates rotating supercells and hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter in some pockets of the storm. The NWS has confirmed at least one funnel cloud sighting west of the city limits, and power outages have already begun affecting neighborhoods across Cook County.
🚨 What You Need to Do NOW:
- Move to the lowest level of your home, preferably a basement or a small interior room.
- Avoid windows and stay away from doors.
- Do not drive unless absolutely necessary. Flying debris poses extreme danger.
- Stay tuned to local news, NOAA weather radios, or mobile alerts.
The warning is expected to remain in effect until 10:00 PM, but could be extended depending on storm movement. Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications has activated its severe weather response plan, with emergency crews and first responders on standby.
🌪️ Schools & Events Cancelled:
Several schools and public events—including outdoor concerts, sports games, and farmers’ markets—have been postponed or cancelled. CTA has also reported delays and partial suspensions of train services due to downed trees and power lines.
🔁 Stay Safe & Stay Informed
This is a developing story. For real-time updates, tune in to:
- WGN-TV
- CBS Chicago
- National Weather Service – Chicago
- Your local emergency alert system
