Severe weather disrupted power for nearly 1 million people in the Midwest as intense thunderstorms and high winds struck the area on Tuesday. Tornado warnings were issued as the skies darkened, and flights were halted temporarily at both major airports in Chicago, causing delays. According to FlightAware, 45% of flights at Chicago O’Hare International were delayed, and 10% were canceled on Tuesday.
In Ohio, power outages affected the state capital region, and at least one death was reported. Social media images from Chicago showed flooded roads, trees entangled in power lines, and homes with roof damage. In Tinley Park, Illinois, significant storm damage was captured on video, showcasing a damaged roof.
By Tuesday evening, over 991,000 customers in Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky were without power, as reported by PowerOutage.us. Meteorologist Scott Baker from the National Weather Service explained that the Midwest was experiencing the “ring of fire,” a phenomenon bringing excessive moisture, instability, and storms due to a large zone of high atmospheric pressure.
Meteorologists warned earlier in the day about the dangerous nature of these storms. CBS News Chicago reported at least two suspected tornadoes impacting suburbs in South Chicago and Northwest Indiana. In Flossmoor, South Chicago, resident Gilbert Casillas described debris hitting his house and the need to take shelter downstairs during the storm.
In Homewood, another Chicago suburb, Javid Jenkins sought gas for a generator to maintain food in his refrigerator. He described the event as terrifying and mentioned that the area is more equipped for dealing with snow and cold than with such storms.
There were numerous reports of wind gusts reaching 80 mph or more. In Tinley Park, resident Kerry Hourigan spoke about losing her roof and shared her concern over a missing barbecue grill.
In Portage, Indiana, a home explosion during the storm resulted in a death. Aerial images displayed extensive debris and flames at the site. The cause of the explosion remains unclear. In Crown Point, Indiana, residents tackled fallen tree debris.
Hailey Mogan, in Crown Point, shared her experience of barricading in a bathroom during the storm to stay safe. The heavy winds pushed against their door, requiring a makeshift lock.
The Lake County, Indiana, Fair’s scheduled event had to be canceled, disappointing attendees. Significant tree damage was reported in LaPorte County, Indiana, according to Commissioner Joe Haney.
In Ohio, Governor Mike DeWine reported a death in Roseville during a health emergency hindered by flooded roads. He cautioned about ongoing flood dangers. Forecasters expect continuing rain to pose flood hazards in the Ohio Valley into early Friday. Columbus, Ohio, officials released workers early in anticipation of further storms, and the Westerville library was forced to shut down when rain flooded its atrium.