Residents of Hickory Hills and Bridgeview witnessed severe damage after a tornado struck their area. On Friday, people stood outside their apartment building, observing the devastation, including a roof blown off and wood impaling a garage. Melissa Alvarez, a resident, mentioned that many thought it resembled a tornado initially. The National Weather Service confirmed on Monday that a tornado, with wind speeds between 111 and 135 mph, had indeed touched down on Thursday evening.
The tornado’s path extended from Hickory Hills to the Midway Airport area, part of a series of 17 tornadoes that hit the region that night. Alvarez reported that power was restored to her building by Sunday night, allowing her to return. However, she remained uncertain about the safety inspections following the roof’s destruction.
Hickory Hills Mayor Mike Howley recalled that the storm’s full impact was not apparent to him until the next day. Photos and reports of downed poles and live wires revealed the extent of the damage. “You could feel the windows being sucked in,” Howley described. The storm led to widespread power outages and a water main break in the town. Approximately four utility poles near 88th and 89th streets were also downed.
Howley emphasized that, to his knowledge, no deaths or injuries occurred in the town. He reflected on his 50 years in the area, noting he had never seen such devastation. By Monday afternoon, 12% of homes still lacked power. Howley reported that the Police and Public Works departments were working tirelessly to clear debris, while cautioning residents against scammers offering tree services at inflated prices.
The National Weather Service classified the June 11 tornado assessments as preliminary, with further analyses pending. Although the Hickory Hills tornado was confirmed, detailed path information was still under review.
Calumet City also faced heavy storms and its share of damage. Downed trees and power lines were widespread, according to the Calumet City Emergency Services and Disaster Agency. Mayor Thaddeus Jones remarked on the unprecedented impact, recounting how century-old trees damaged homes and vehicles. Power outages affected much of the city.
The storm impact in Calumet City included a tree falling on a woman’s house, disrupting gas and power lines. Although hospitalized, she was released shortly after, and plans to demolish the damaged house were underway. City officials noted that 17 tornadoes were confirmed in Illinois and Indiana on June 11. The city is now working to find temporary housing for affected residents, possibly through the Red Cross or donations.
A dedicated crew of 56 personnel from the Police, Fire departments, and tree services are actively addressing storm damage in Calumet City. Mayor Jones highlighted that officers have been conducting wellness checks and assisting residents. Many have expressed gratitude for the city’s efforts, calling or emailing their thanks.
The Emergency Services Department advised caution around hazardous areas, such as downed trees and utility lines.