As severe thunderstorms swept through the Chicago area on Sunday, the National Weather Service (NWS) raised alerts about an incoming cold front that is projected to bring strong winds, potentially reaching speeds of up to 50 mph overnight into Monday. Meteorologist Mark Ratzer described a “deep, low-pressure system” that had passed through Illinois, resulting in unofficial reports of tornadoes and wind damage in towns to the south and southeast of Chicago.
The day was characterized by a mix of rain and unusually warm temperatures, which combined with the advancing cold front to produce intense thunderstorms. Ratzer reported that these powerful storms moved eastward at approximately 55 mph, resulting in reports of brief tornado spin-ups in some areas.
Damage reports flooded in from places like Pontiac and Gibson City, with additional concerns stemming from Papineau as the storm front traveled east. Communities situated south of the Kankakee River and east of Interstate 57, extending as far south as Champaign, faced potential severe weather risks throughout Sunday.
Despite numerous eyewitness accounts and reports of funnel clouds, the NWS has not yet confirmed any tornado touchdowns. “We have received several reports of funnel formation and wind damage,” Ratzer stated. “However, we cannot currently confirm that these incidences were caused by tornadoes.”
As the weekend progressed, the severe weather threat gradually subsided, but temperatures in the Chicago area experienced a significant drop. After maintaining mid-50s at O’Hare and Midway airports for most of the day, the cold front moved in quickly.
With the drop in temperatures comes strong winds, leading to the issuance of a wind advisory. Gusts are anticipated to reach between 45 to 50 mph, and the NWS warns of the potential for light snow accumulation of less than an inch starting Sunday night and into Monday morning.
This swift transition in weather is a reminder of the dynamic nature of late autumn in the Midwest, showcasing both the power of nature and the resilience of communities as they prepare for changing conditions.