CHICAGO – The Chicago Office of Emergency Management is working with the National Weather Service in Chicago to monitor a fast-moving line of severe thunderstorms that will affect the Chicago area tonight until tomorrow morning. Severe thunderstorms with destructive winds up to 75 mph or more can be expected along with the chance of small tornadoes. Impacts include flash flooding with possible 2-3 inches of rain an hour, power outages due to high winds and downed trees.

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch affecting the Chicago area from 6 p.m. tonight until 3 a.m. Tuesday morning, July 16 due to heavy rainfall causing significant flash flooding. Underpass, viaduct and street flooding are possible.

Be prepared to move to a safe shelter should weather emergency alerts be issued.

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Great Chicago (MWRD) has issued an Overflow Action Day Alert for today. Due to the approaching heavy rainfall expected, it is advised to reduce the amount of water in municipal sewers by delaying showers and baths, flush less frequently and wait to run the dishwasher or washing machine. For more details, visit Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago | MWRD

As extreme weather can be hazardous and unpredictable, OEMC and City departments are reminding residents and visitors to heed all storm warnings, watches and advisories; and to be aware of the safety tips and the resources available in a heat emergency to help alleviate the impact. Have multiple ways to get weather warnings, stay tuned for the latest forecast updates, avoid flooded streets and paths, report flooding to the National Weather Service or call 9-1-1 for emergencies.

Prepare now for flooding threat by moving valuables from flood-prone areas, such as basements and outdoor areas with poor drainage. Know alternate routes for travel should streets or railways become flooded. Know where you should go to move to higher ground.

Current Storm Damage

Currently there is citywide damage from fallen tree emergencies caused by high winds. Crews are working citywide on damage sustained from last night’s band of storms including a power outage on South Princeton from 47th to 55th Streets to Shields. ComEd, OEMC, and Department of Buildings have been on site working to restore power.

ComEd Update

Following two rounds of severe weather this past weekend – including a system on Sunday that contained wind gusts of over 60 mph and more than 10,000 lightning strikes – ComEd is preparing for a third round by readying crews for weather expected this Monday evening, including gusts of 65 mph, lightning and rain. ComEd already restored more than 130,000 outages of over 140,000 outages occurring over the weekend, and will have additional crews out throughout the day, with crews focusing on restoring critical facilities such as police and fire stations, nursing homes and hospitals first, followed by repairs that will restore power to the greatest number of customers.

ComEd reminds customers to stay safe at all times, and to take the following precautions during severe weather:

· If a downed power line is spotted, immediately call ComEd at 1-800-EDISON1 (1-800-334-7661). Spanish-speaking customers should call 1-800-95-LUCES (1-800-955-8237).

· Never approach a downed power line. Always assume a power line is extremely dangerous and energized.

· In the event of an outage, do not approach ComEd crews working to restore power to ask about restoration times. Crews may be working on live electrical equipment, and the perimeter of the work zone may be hazardous.

Public safety is the top priority of the City of Chicago and OEMC will work closely with the National Weather Service in Chicago to monitor conditions. Should emergencies, severe storms or extreme heat arise, OEMC will coordinate the City’s response by working with departments citywide to assist residents and vulnerable populations.

Sign up for NotifyChicago alerts at NotifyChicago.org. OEMC also issues TEXT alerts for lakefront notices and issues affecting businesses or events:

• CHILAKE: For lakefront notices, TEXT “CHILAKE” to 7-8-0-1-5

• CHIBIZ: For alerts affecting businesses, TEXT “CHIBIZ” to 6-7-2-8-3

Chicago OEMC App

For safety and preparedness at your fingertips, residents and visitors are encouraged to download the new Chicago OEMC App. The public safety tool provides safety information, preparedness tips, emergency alerts, weather information and more in the palm of your hand. Users will also have access to current forecasts, radar, and other weather-related information as well. The app is now available through the Apple App and Google Play stores. To immediately download, click HERE or visit the website Chicago.gov/OEMC.

For additional information on emergency preparedness information, visit the OEMC website at Chicago.gov/OEMC. Follow the Office of Emergency Management and Communications on Facebook (@coemc), Twitter (@ChicagoOEMC) and Instagram (chicago_oemc_911)