Weather warnings issued for parts of Chicago area as new storms sweep through
A Flood Watch was in effect for most of the area through midnight Tuesday night.
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Laura Bannon is the weekday morning meteorologist. A native of Chicagoland, Laura grew up in Naperville. She is an Emmy-nominated meteorologist and holds her NWA Seal of Approval.
Upon graduating Neuqua Valley High, Laura attended the University of Missouri. While completing a degree in communication at Mizzou, Laura attended Mississippi State University distance program and obtained a Bachelors of Science in Geosciences.
In college, Laura landed her first on air job in Jefferson City, Missouri. Laura worked weekends at KRCG her senior year and secured her first full time broadcasting job at WBBJ in Jackson, Tennessee. From there, Laura went on to serve on weather teams in Wichita, Kansas; Dallas; Nashville; and currently Chicago, experiencing a variety of severe weather markets across the country.
Laura has covered many severe weather outbreaks. One weather event she'll never forget is the 2020 Nashville tornado. Laura was the meteorologist on duty when an EF-3 tornado ripped through downtown Nashville, killing 24 people. Laura and her team were nominated for a 2020 Emmy in the Breaking News category for their extensive coverage.
Along with the weather, one of Laura's passions is helping others with disabilities. In each of her residencies, she has volunteered at therapeutic horseback riding centers. An equestrian since a young girl, Laura uses her knowledge to assist children with physical, emotional, and behavioral disabilities learn how to ride horses. She has found it to be a life-changing experience working one on one with these children and watching their progress week after week.
After work, Laura enjoys working out, going to the gym daily, training for Cross Fit events and taking long walks outside.
A Flood Watch was in effect for most of the area through midnight Tuesday night.
The hazy skies in the Chicago area are the visible sign of the poor air quality on Thursday as smoke from Canadian wildfires sent Chicago to the top of the list of most polluted cities in the world.
The storms can produce damaging winds and cause flooding, as one to three inches of rain are expected in some areas.
An Air Quality Alert is in effect as Canadian wildfire smoke has been blown in behind a slow-moving rain system and cold front.
Downed trees were scattered across roads and thousands were without power after a line of destructive storms hit the city.
Heavy rain that started overnight continues Thursday, bringing a risk of flooding before a round possible thunderstorms moves in.
After a bitter cold start, temperatures will struggle today with highs in the 20s.
Highs will be in the 50s.
Clouds increase tonight with showers, possibly by daybreak.
A few storms could be strong, producing small hail and gusty winds.
Monday's temperatures will be in the 50s.
A tornado watch was issued for much of the evening for some counties adjacent to the Chicago area, but has been dropped.
Rain chances ramp up for Easter Sunday, especially by midday. Highs will only reach the lower 50s.
Chicago weather Friday will see temperatures soar near 80 degrees before the warm, wet air mass collides with a cold front that could produce severe thunderstorms.
There's a chance for strong storms Thursday night, with gusty winds and small hail as the main threats.