Severe storms miss Chicago area Tuesday, but hit hard downstate
Some powerful storms hit Central Illinois late Tuesday afternoon.
Heavy rain and even hail pelted the town of Paxton, Illinois, about half an hour north of Champaign.
There was also a tornado on the ground there, but fortunately, it caused no damage. Three other tornadoes were also reported in Illinois on Tuesday.
The severe storms missed the Chicago area, but there was still plenty of rain off and on throughout the day. The rain made for a messy morning commute for any early morning commuters, came down in sheets at points in the afternoon and evening too.
There was a ground stop at O'Hare International Airport at about 3:30 p.m., but it was lifted, though residual delays followed. A ground stop was also issued at Midway Airport Tuesday afternoon.
Storms waned after 7 p.m., with light fog and drizzle continuing overnight.
The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District earlier declared Tuesday an overflow action day, meaning there is a sharply increased risk of flooding. Residents are asked to refrain from showering, or doing other water-heavy activities like running your dishwasher, washing machines and other appliances.
Rain showers are forecast on and off until Wednesday night, and temperatures will stay cool and below normal.
In total, rainfall accumulations are forecasted to be between 1 inch and 2 inches, which could create flooding in poor drainage areas as well as rising water levels in rivers, creeks, and streams.
A few leftover isolated showers will also be possible Thursday morning.
