‘Brief Tornadoes’ May Have Touched Down Thursday: Weather Service

CHICAGO, IL — More than four inches of rain fell in portions of the Chicago area late Thursday and early Friday. The heavy rain left some roads impassable and strong winds caused damage to trees.

The strong winds could have been caused by “brief tornadoes,”according to the National Weather Service. The swath of notable wind damage, primarily to trees, occurred in north central Illinois and into the far western suburbs of Chicago, including Kane County.

“...While broad strong winds are the main culprit, it's possible some of this was caused by brief tornadoes,” according to weather officials.

As of 5 a.m. Friday, the highest rainfall total, 4.15 inches, was recorded at O’Hare International Airport. Here’s a look at other rainfall totals throughout the area:

Waukegan Airport: 3.93

Geneva3: 3.55 inches

Elgin: 3.41 inches

Algonquin: 2.99 inches

Sugar Grove - Aurora Airport: 2.52 inches

Midway Airport: 2.37 inches

Buffalo Grove: 2.19 inches

Wheeling - Chicago Executive Airport: 1.90 inches

More via the National Weather Service