Wind gusts exceeding 70 mph caused widespread tree damage, power outages, and flash flooding across Chicago on Wednesday, June 10, 2026. The National Weather Service reported sporadic wind damage and violent thunderstorms that disrupted local transit and caused hundreds of flight cancellations at O’Hare and Midway.
Why did these storms cause widespread damage?
The storms were fueled by “very warm and humid conditions” on Wednesday, according to National Weather Service meteorologist Kevin Birk. Birk stated that daytime heat caused instability, which a moving cold front then lifted to trigger the thunderstorms. These storms produced wind gusts between 60 and 70-plus mph, resulting in sporadic damage throughout the metropolitan area.
How were Chicago neighborhoods and travelers affected?
Flash flooding was reported across the city, including on the West Side, an area that has experienced significant flooding during past storms. Neighbor Princess Shaw reported extensive flooding near the intersection of West Washington Street and South Homan Avenue in Garfield Park. The flooding prompted the cancellation of a meeting for a West Side senior flood recovery group at the Columbus Park Refectory.
Shaw, who works with a volunteer community outreach team, has been in contact with more than 10 West Siders with flooded basements and 10 to 15 people who lost power. In Austin, a fallen tree near Jackson Boulevard and Lavergne Avenue created major traffic delays and bus reroutes.
On the South Side, a Rock Island Metra train was forced to reverse near Beverly around 5 p.m. because of a downed tree on the tracks. Passengers were able to exit at the 91st Street station.
Travelers also faced significant disruptions at area airports. According to data from the Official Aviation Guide, nearly 400 flights were canceled at O’Hare as of 7 p.m. Wednesday, compared to 10 cancellations at Midway. Delays at both airports averaged well over an hour.
What is the weather forecast for the region?
Another line of storms with similar wind speeds is expected to hit the city around 9 p.m. Wednesday. Kevin Birk said more storms are headed for the region Thursday afternoon and could even produce tornadoes. Conditions are expected to clear by Friday, with highs near 80 and lows in the mid-60s.
