The National Weather Service issued a brief tornado warning for Southern Cook County on Tuesday afternoon. According to the warning, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was moving east at a speed of 10 miles per hour over Matteson. The NWS also warned that this dangerous storm could cause damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles, as well as tree damage.
The warning was in effect for several areas including Park Forest, Homewood, Matteson, Country Club Hills, Hazel Crest, Richton Park, Flossmoor, and Olympia Fields. The NWS also added that the storm was expected to bring heavy rain to these areas, making it difficult to spot any rotation.
The warning was issued at 12:22 p.m. and was set to expire at 12:45 p.m. However, even after the warning expired, the NWS continued to urge caution as a flash flood warning was issued for southeastern Cook and Will Counties in Illinois until 3:45 p.m. The warning stated that high standing water was reported across expressways, including portions of I-294, 57, 80, and 90.
In addition to the tornado warning and flash flood warning, the NWS also reported that Matteson had received nearly 2.5 inches of rain in just 30 minutes. This heavy rain and dangerous storm came after a morning of widespread rain and some storms across the Chicago area. Although the rain was expected to taper off later in the afternoon, spotty areas of rain were still possible overnight and into the early hours of Wednesday morning.
According to NBC 5 Meteorologist Alicia Roman, temperatures on Tuesday would remain in the mid 60s to low 70s, signaling the end of the late summer heat that had been experienced in recent weeks. As the week progresses, temperatures are expected to stay in the mid 70s.
However, despite the end of the warm weather, the NWS warned that more lake effect showers were possible in Northwest Indiana on Wednesday morning. But as a silver lining, the cooler temperatures were a welcome change from the hot and humid days that had been experienced in the past weeks.
As the rain and thunderstorms passed through the Chicago area, it was important to take precautions and stay safe. The NWS advised residents to avoid low lying areas and to be cautious while driving, especially on expressways where high standing water was reported.
Despite the stormy weather, the NWS also noted that this was a much-needed relief from the dry conditions that had been plaguing the region. With nearly 2.5 inches of rain in just 30 minutes, the storm was a welcome sight for farmers and those concerned about drought conditions.
Looking ahead, NBC 5 Meteorologist Alicia Roman predicted that the rain and storms would taper off in the evening, with spotty showers in the early hours of Wednesday morning. Temperatures were also expected to drop into the upper 40s and 50s, providing a refreshing break from the summer heat.
In conclusion, the tornado warning and flash flood warning issued by the National Weather Service on Tuesday afternoon served as a reminder to take precautions and stay safe during the stormy weather. Although the rain and thunderstorms brought some inconvenience, it was a much-needed relief from the dry conditions and high temperatures. As the week progresses, temperatures are expected to remain in the mid 70s, providing a pleasant and comfortable end to the summer season.
