Severe Weather Threatens Chicago Area with Flooding, Tornado Risk

A 'slight' risk of strong storms could bring heavy rain, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes to the region.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 10:51pm

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a violent thunderstorm, with heavy rain and dark, swirling clouds dominating the frame and dwarfing any physical structures or objects caught within the scene.As severe storms continue to batter the Chicago region, the awe-inspiring power of nature is on full display, underscoring the need for vigilance and preparedness.Chicago Today

The Chicago area is bracing for another round of severe thunderstorms on Wednesday night, with the potential for heavy rainfall, flash flooding, large hail, and even isolated tornadoes. The entire region is under a flood watch, and urban areas are particularly susceptible to flooding due to the expected rainfall rates of 1-2 inches per hour. There is also a non-zero chance of tornadoes developing with the storms, which are expected to sweep across the city and suburbs between 8 PM and midnight.

Why it matters

Severe weather events like this can pose a significant threat to public safety, infrastructure, and property in the Chicago area. The combination of heavy rain, high winds, and possible tornadoes can lead to power outages, transportation disruptions, and costly damage. Preparing residents and businesses for these types of storms is crucial for minimizing the impact on the community.

The details

According to the Storm Prediction Center, the entire Chicago area is at a 'slight' risk of severe weather, the second of five levels used by the SPC to assess the risk of powerful storms. The main threats include heavy rain, sometimes falling at a rate of 1-to-2 inches per hour, and gusty winds. There is also a non-zero chance of isolated tornadoes with the storms, which began forming in Iowa and western portions of Illinois on Tuesday afternoon. Urban areas are particularly susceptible to flash flooding, and the entire area is under a flood watch, according to the National Weather Service.

  • The first round of severe weather has already begun, with a tornado warning issued in Ogle County, according to the National Weather Service.
  • Another round of storms is expected to sweep across the city and suburbs between 8 p.m. and midnight, with the main threats seen west of Interstate 57, according to the National Weather Service.
  • After the storms finally move out early Thursday morning, there will be a period of at least some calm in the area, though another round of severe weather could potentially arrive Friday night.

The players

Storm Prediction Center

The Storm Prediction Center is a division of the National Weather Service that is responsible for issuing severe weather outlooks and forecasts for the United States.

National Weather Service

The National Weather Service is a scientific agency of the United States government that is responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather warnings.

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What they’re saying

“The main threats will be heavy rain, sometimes falling at a rate of 1-to-2 inches per hour, and gusty winds, according to forecast models.”

— NBC Storm Team

“There is also a non-zero chance of isolated tornadoes with the storms, which began forming in Iowa and western portions of Illinois on Tuesday afternoon.”

— NBC Storm Team

What’s next

The NBC 5 Storm Team will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the potential for severe weather in the Chicago area. Residents are advised to stay tuned to local news and weather reports and be prepared to take shelter if necessary.

The takeaway

This severe weather event highlights the importance of being prepared for extreme weather conditions in the Chicago area. Residents and businesses should review their emergency plans, ensure they have access to reliable weather information, and take appropriate precautions to protect themselves and their property.