Severe Storms and Tornado Warnings Impact Chicago and Northwest Indiana
Severe Storms and Tornado Warnings Impact Chicago and Northwest Indiana
US · Published Jul 28, 2026
• Severe thunderstorms and tornado warnings were issued across Chicago and Northwest Indiana on Monday, July 27,
• The storms brought heavy rain, damaging winds, and golf ball-sized hail, causing widespread power outages and significant damage. Nearly 320,000 customers lost power, and the city of Chicago received over 1,500 service requests related to flooding, downed trees, and damaged infrastructure. The National Weather Service (NWS) reported unconfirmed tornado sightings in Glen Ellyn, Orland Park, and Lansing, with damage assessments planned. Rainfall totals ranged from 1.5 to 3 inches, pushing the region's summer rainfall above average. A cold front is expected to bring relief starting Tuesday, but thunderstorms may return by the weekend.

Impact & Risks

The storms caused extensive damage across the region, including collapsed roofs, downed trees, and flooding. In Ford Heights, an apartment building roof collapsed, while Homewood experienced widespread tree damage. Emergency crews rescued contractors trapped in a storm sewer in Downers Grove. Nearly 320,000 customers were left without power, and public transportation was disrupted. The storms also posed risks of additional tornadoes, hail, and flash flooding, particularly in low-lying areas and basements.

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