Chicago, IL – A Flood Advisory was issued for portions of the Chicago area on Monday evening as heavy rainfall and thunderstorms moved through the region, creating the potential for flash flooding in both city neighborhoods and suburban areas.
Flood Advisory Covers Multiple Counties
The National Weather Service announced the advisory would remain in effect until 12:45 a.m. Tuesday for parts of Cook, Page, and Will counties. The impacted zone stretched from downtown Chicago across the West, Northwest, and Southwest sides, as well as into western and southwestern suburbs.
Residents began noticing a significant change in weather shortly after 9 p.m., when lightning flashed over downtown and thunder rumbled, followed by bursts of heavy rain. By 10 p.m., rainfall on Chicago’s North and Northwest sides was recorded at an intense rate of 7 to 8 inches per hour, raising concerns about roadway ponding and rapid water accumulation.
More Rain Expected Through Tuesday
According to the National Weather Service, showers are forecast to continue into Tuesday morning, some of them producing intense downpours. Afternoon storms may bring gusty winds, lightning, and additional heavy rain, further increasing the risk of flash flooding, particularly in Cook County and the southwest suburbs.
Meteorologists warn that overnight downpours could overwhelm drainage systems, creating hazardous driving conditions during the Tuesday morning commute.
Weekend Storms Hit Milwaukee Area Hard
While Chicago escaped the worst of the weekend’s weather, Milwaukee and surrounding areas suffered severe flooding on Saturday night. CBS 58 in Milwaukee reported that torrential rain flooded basements, submerged vehicles, and left nearly 47,000 We Energies customers without power in southeast Wisconsin.
The Wisconsin State Fair’s final day in West Allis had to be canceled, and in the suburban village of Wauwatosa, an overflowing Menomonee River inundated the town’s historical society, Hart Park Stadium, and multiple local businesses.
Safety Precautions for Residents
Authorities urge residents in flood-prone areas to stay alert, avoid driving through flooded streets, and keep updated on weather alerts. Even shallow floodwaters can be dangerous, and motorists are reminded of the “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” rule when encountering water-covered roadways.
Have you experienced flooding in your neighborhood during recent storms? Share your story in the comments.
