Cleanup Underway After 5 Tornadoes and Derecho Hit Chicago Suburbs
Cleanup Underway After 5 Tornadoes and Derecho Hit Chicago Suburbs
US · Published Aug 13, 2026
The National Weather Service (NWS) has confirmed that a derecho and at least five tornadoes struck the Chicago area on Tuesday, August 11,
The storms caused widespread damage across the south and southwest suburbs, including Mokena, Monee, Orland Park, and Oswego. Tornadoes ranged in intensity from EF0 to EF2, with the strongest, an EF2, traveling from Monee to Crete. The storms uprooted trees, damaged homes, and knocked out power to thousands of residents. Significant damage was reported at Marian Catholic High School in Chicago Heights, where the roof was severely damaged, and the campus remains without power. Cleanup efforts are ongoing as residents and businesses assess the destruction and work to recover.

Impact & Risks

The storms have left thousands without power, with downed power lines posing significant hazards. In Frankfort, downed lines sparked a house fire, while in Crete, residents reported water damage, broken windows, and fallen trees. Businesses, including daycare centers and restaurants, are facing financial losses due to closures and spoiled inventory. The storms also disrupted daily life, forcing schools to cancel activities and residents to shelter in place. Officials are warning of the dangers of improperly using generators during power outages, as carbon monoxide poisoning remains a risk.

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