A flood watch has been issued for the Chicago region until 7 a.m. Friday as thunderstorms move through the area, according to the National Weather Service.
The watch is in effect for Cook County, the collar counties and the majority of northern Illinois. A flash flood warning was issued in the Rockford area.
Scattered thunderstorms moved through the area Thursday evening, bringing torrential downpours that have resulted in flash flooding in some low-lying areas, the weather service said.
“A Flood Watch for flash flooding means rapid-onset flooding is possible, but not yet certain, based upon the latest forecasts,” a National Weather Service alert reads. “Flash flooding is a dangerous situation. Persons with interests along area rivers, creeks, and other waterways should monitor the latest forecasts and be prepared to take action should flooding develop.”
Rain is expected to continue throughout the night. Scattered storms are forecast to return again Friday evening as temperatures rise into the 80s, with a heat index nearing 95 degrees, according to the weather service.
More showers are called for Saturday afternoon, along with temperatures in the 90s and wind gusts up to 20 mph, the weather service said.
