Chicago experienced severe weather disruptions on Friday, with flash flood warnings, funnel clouds, and heavy rains impacting several counties.
The National Weather Service issued a flood warning at 5:30 p.m. for DuPage and Cook counties after several locations reported rainfall totals between 3 and 5 inches. ABC7 Chicago meteorologists warned of additional rain expected between Friday night and Saturday morning, with additional storms likely Saturday afternoon. Flash flooding remains a concern, with rainfall rates exceeding 2 inches per hour still possible. Isolated tornadoes, while unlikely, haven’t been ruled out.
Heavy downpours flooded multiple viaducts, including one near Drake Avenue off 47th Street and Archer Avenue. Inbound Interstate 55 near First Avenue also saw high water levels. Video footage from 58th Street and Harlem Avenue showed residents attempting to navigate through deep floodwaters.
People shared dramatic videos from the city showing knee-deep water as heavy rain brought chaos. The National Weather Service in Chicago has issued a Flash Flood Warning until 2:45pm and a Flood Watch effective until 6 p.m. Persons along creeks, drainage ditches, and other waterways should take immediate precautions to protect life and property.
The National Weather Service in Chicago has issued a Flash Flood Warning until 2:45pm and a Flood Watch effective until 6 p.m.
Persons along creeks, drainage ditches, and other waterways should take immediate precautions to protect life and property.
Turn around, don’t drown. pic.twitter.com/roVeEQxzBf— Chicago OEMC (@ChicagoOEMC) July 25, 2025
Air traffic was also impacted. Midway Airport reported delays of up to 45 minutes, while O’Hare experienced delays of approximately 25 minutes due to thunderstorms and temporary ground stops.
Mount Greenwood experienced low water pressure caused by an electrical issue at the Southwest Pumping Station. In Darien, flooding occurred at the police department located at 1710 Plainfield Road. Deputy Police Chief Jason Norton confirmed that multiple rooms, including evidence storage areas, were affected. The building also experienced a temporary power outage.
Crews worked through the day to pump out water from flooded buildings and streets. Several cars were stranded near Pinewood Park, prompting water rescues. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Earlier, the National Weather Service issued a special statement after funnel clouds were spotted from LaSalle County to southern Cook County.
More showers and thunderstorms are expected later on Saturday, capping off a week of intense weather that had already brought down power lines and trees on Thursday.
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