Chicago Area Hit by Multiple Tornadoes, Causing Widespread Damage and Power Outages

At Least 11 Tornadoes Reported, with More Possible

Residents of Chicagoland awoke to widespread power outages and downed trees Thursday morning after a night of severe thunderstorms and multiple tornado touchdowns. The National Weather Service confirmed at least 11 tornadoes in the Chicago area, with more possible.

Tornadoes Damage Homes, Uproot Trees

The tornadoes caused significant damage, destroying homes and uprooting trees. At least two tornadoes were reported near Des Moines, Iowa, and another just outside O'Hare Airport. The Weather Service said a tornado also touched down near Rochelle, Illinois.

Widespread Power Outages

As of Thursday morning, more than 100,000 customers in the Chicago area were without power. ComEd, the region's largest utility, reported downed power lines and damaged equipment. Crews are working to restore power as quickly as possible.

Live Coverage

Local news stations provided live coverage of the storm throughout the night, with their chyrons flashing warnings of possible tornadoes across the Chicago area. The storms brought heavy rain, lightning, and hail, creating hazardous conditions for firefighters and emergency responders.

Cleanup and Recovery

Officials are urging residents to stay indoors and avoid downed power lines. Damage assessment teams are being deployed to affected areas to determine the extent of the damage and coordinate cleanup and recovery efforts.