Tornadoes Cause Damage in Chicago, Forcing Air Traffic Closure
Several tornadoes have struck Chicago, causing significant damage to houses and leading to the closure of air traffic in the area. Videos shared on social media platforms captured the formation of violent winds in the sky, particularly in the northwestern suburbs of the city.
The National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed reports of tornadoes in South Elgin and Campton Hills. The unsettling weather conditions prompted airports to suspend operations, and city authorities urged residents to seek shelter as tornado sirens echoed across Chicago.
One of the reported tornado touchdowns occurred in the Edgewater (Del Webb) subdivision at Bowes and Randall Roads. Although 19 homes suffered varying degrees of damage, no injuries were reported, and all residents were accounted for, according to the police.
Elgin police revealed that ten homes sustained significant damage, while the other nine had cosmetic damage. As a precaution, the affected area remained closed overnight, and residents were relocated to ensure their safety.
The NWS also confirmed a tornado touching down near Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport on Wednesday evening. This tornado was one of at least eight that struck northeastern Illinois, with four occurring in Cook County. The NWS warned residents in the affected area to seek shelter.
While footage of two tornadoes was dramatic, NBC 5 Storm Team meteorologists clarified that they did not appear to be twin tornadoes, which refer to two tornadoes originating from the same storm cell with different rotations.
Numerous professional weather observers and spotters reported tornadoes in various locations. There was additional tornado touchdown damage near Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, where videos showed multiple warehouses on the west side of the airport being impacted.
The NWS described another tornado near Stickney and Berwyn as large and extremely dangerous. A tornado touchdown was also reported near Hodgkins and Summit.
In DuPage County, weather spotters noted snapped trees and scattered debris in Carol Stream. A tornado was reported to have touched down in that area as well.
As the severe weather continues to affect the region, it is crucial for individuals to remain cautious and stay updated on official communications and weather advisories.
