NewsNBC Chicago – LocalJuly 4, 2026United States
Severe Storms and Flooding Disrupt Chicago Area Holiday Weekend
Severe weather is causing widespread flooding, power outages, and the cancellation of Fourth of July events across the Chicago region. Authorities have issued multiple thunderstorm and flood warnings, urging residents to avoid travel due to life-threatening conditions.
Read the full story at NBC Chicago – LocalWhy It Matters
Residents face immediate risks from ing, damaging winds, and power outages, with significant travel disruptions on major roadways like I-94 and the cancellation of local holiday events.
Key Facts
- A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect until 7 p.m. CT for 11 counties across Illinois and Indiana.
- Interstate 94 southbound lanes are closed at Steel Bridge with traffic diverted to Sibley West.
- Flash flood warnings are in effect for parts of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Will, and Lake (IN) counties.
- More than 70,000 residents were left without power following Friday's storms.
- Rainfall rates reached up to 3 inches per hour in some areas on Saturday.
- A boat capsized in Lake Geneva, resulting in three child fatalities.
- Severe thunderstorm warnings were issued for multiple counties with potential for 70 mph winds.
- Some areas have received 3-5 inches of rain over the last 48 hours.
- Many suburban Fourth of July events and fireworks displays have been canceled.
- The National Weather Service issued an 'imminent threat alert' for flash flooding.
Who's Mentioned
locationInterstate 94“Roadway closed due to severe flooding”organizationIllinois State Police“Managing traffic diversions due to flooding”personPete Sack“NBC 5 Storm Team Meteorologist”organizationNational Weather Service“Issued weather alerts and flood warnings”other70,000“Number of people without power”