Severe Storms and Lightning Strike Chicago Skies

Intense thunderstorms lit up the Chicago night sky Monday, accompanied by heavy rain and flash flooding across the city.

Photographer Craig Shimala captured a striking image of lightning illuminating multiple skyscrapers simultaneously, creating a dramatic display over the downtown skyline.

While some residents managed to evacuate safely, a nearby home suffered significant damage due to the storm. Heavy rainfall also caused widespread disruption, including road closures and diverted transit routes, especially around O’Hare Airport, where nearly 2 inches of rain fell.

Rain gauges in surrounding areas reported even higher totals—over 4 inches in Leland, Illinois, and more than 5 inches in Hammond and Whiting, Indiana. Flooded streets prompted warnings and travel delays in several neighborhoods.

Local schools in Whiting delayed openings by two hours due to flooded roads, and in Oswego, Illinois, floodwaters penetrated a high school, forcing classes to go online.

This stormy period adds to Chicago’s recent weather challenges, with multiple damaging flooding events occurring since early July.