Chicago area and Merrillville, Indiana recover after severe storms and tornado

Severe storms swept through the Chicago metropolitan area, toppling trees, damaging a gas main and water pipes, and knocking out power for more than 180,000 ComEd customers. The damage forced the closure of a courthouse, halted CTA Yellow Line service temporarily, and prompted emergency crews to respond to thousands of calls about flooded streets, downed wires, and debris.

In neighboring Indiana, an EF‑2 tornado struck Merrillville, destroying or damaging at least 200 homes and businesses, bringing down trees and power lines, and causing flooding. No serious injuries were reported. Local shelters opened at the Lincoln Community Center in Highland, and community groups, including a Domino's restaurant, provided food for recovery crews.