Flash Flooding Hits Chicago After Torrential Downpours
CHICAGO – A sudden deluge triggered dangerous flash flooding across parts of Chicago Tuesday night, with some areas receiving more than 5 inches of rain in just 90 minutes. The National Weather Service issued a Flash Flood Warning for Chicago and Cicero until 11:45 p.m., while a Flood Advisory remained in effect for the North Side.
Emergency Reports and Rescues
- Water rescues were reported near Western & Ogden and Fulton & Maple as streets turned into rivers.
- Viaducts flooded at Ashland & Grand and Halsted & 16th Street, with firefighters responding to submerged vehicles.
- The hardest-hit area was just west of the United Center, where rainfall exceeded 5 inches in under two hours.
Authorities urged drivers and pedestrians to avoid flooded roads, warning that even shallow water can be deadly. By 10:55 p.m., rainfall rates began easing, but standing water remained a hazard.
What’s Next for Chicago’s Weather?
- Wednesday: Scattered showers and storms possible, otherwise partly cloudy with highs in the mid-80s.
- Thursday: Sunny and warm, mid-80s.
- Friday: Heat returns with highs near 90°F and storms likely in the evening, continuing into Saturday.
- Sunday & Monday: Dry and sunny, with temperatures in the mid-to-upper 80s.
Residents are advised to stay alert for further weather updates and avoid floodwaters.