‘Destructive’ storms pummeled Chicago area, brought 100 mph winds

Key Points:

• Severe storms with wind gusts up to 100 mph and possible tornadoes struck the Chicago area Tuesday morning, causing widespread damage to trees, power lines, and infrastructure before moving out by noon.
• Multiple tornado reports and extensive straight-line wind damage were confirmed, with radar-indicated tornadoes near Oakbrook Terrace and Homewood, prompting shelter-in-place orders in downtown Chicago high-rises and Navy Pier.
• Significant damage was reported across suburbs including Plainfield, Flossmoor, Orland Park, Homewood, Romeoville, and Tinley Park, where power outages, flooded roads, downed trees, and blocked streets disrupted travel and emergency services.
• Northwest Indiana also experienced severe impacts, with overturned semis on I-65, downed power lines, and road closures in Portage, Valparaiso, and Merrillville, leading to hazardous travel conditions and ongoing damage assessments.
• Emergency crews are actively working to clear debris, restore power, and ensure public safety, while residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and exercise caution around storm-affected areas.