Weather
Video Shows Severe Dust Storm Approaching Chicago and Western Suburbs
CHICAGO, IL — A significant dust storm is advancing toward the Chicago metropolitan area, with suburbs west of the city expected to experience reduced visibility and hazardous travel conditions.
Earlier this afternoon, portions of east-central and eastern Illinois were impacted by the same dust storm system, which developed due to strong wind gusts sweeping across dry, open terrain.
Video footage shared by residents and storm spotters shows large clouds of dust engulfing roadways, creating near whiteout conditions in some areas.
- Visibility may drop rapidly to near zero, especially along open highways, farmland, and rural roads.
- Drivers are urged to use extreme caution and avoid travel if possible as the storm approaches.
- If caught in a dust storm while driving, officials advise pulling off the road as far as safely possible, turning off lights, and keeping your foot off the brake pedal to avoid being rear-ended.
- Those with respiratory conditions, such as asthma or COPD, are encouraged to stay indoors and limit exposure to airborne dust particles.
The National Weather Service is monitoring the situation and may issue advisories or warnings as conditions evolve.
Residents across the greater Chicago area should remain alert and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility and air quality as the storm progresses.
Stay tuned to local weather alerts and trusted news sources for the latest updates.
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — Emergency responders are working multiple rescue calls after a confirmed tornado touched down west of Bloomington and moved directly toward the city, prompting urgent shelter warnings across the region.
The National Weather Service issued a Tornado Warning for Bloomington, Ellettsville, and Clear Creek until 7:30 p.m. EST, describing the situation as particularly dangerous.
The tornado was confirmed on the ground approximately eight miles west of Bloomington and moving east at an estimated 40 miles per hour.
Authorities report that multiple homes have sustained significant damage, with early indications that several individuals may be trapped inside residences impacted by the storm.
Emergency crews are actively conducting search and rescue operations in affected neighborhoods.
Communities directly in the projected path included Bloomington, Ellettsville, the campus of Indiana University Bloomington, Solsberry, and Whitehall.
Meteorologists warned that the storm was capable of producing destructive winds and hail up to the size of ping pong balls. Officials emphasized that the tornado posed a serious threat to life and property.
Residents in the warned area were urged to seek shelter immediately — preferably in a basement or on the lowest level of a sturdy structure, inside an interior room away from windows.
Authorities stressed not to delay action while waiting for visual confirmation of the tornado.
Emergency management officials continue to monitor the storm’s track and assess damage. Additional updates are expected as response efforts continue and more information becomes available.