Home » Airline News of US » Chicago Along With DuPage, Cook Counties, and Darien Struggling with Airport Delays Due to Torrential Rains: Here’s What You Need to Know Now
Published on July 26, 2025
Severe weather conditions in Chicago on Friday afternoon, with torrential rains is causing to flash flooding, important airport delays, and traffic chaos. Travelers are facing multiple disruptions as over 5 inches of rain fell in just a few hours flooding the major roads, viaducts, and causing a significant strain on the city’s transport network. As storms continued into the night, the National Weather Service issued multiple flash flood warnings for the city’s surrounding areas.
Severe Flash Flooding Restricts Drivers and Causes Flights Delayed
Flash floods struck several areas, including DuPage, Cook counties, and parts of downtown Chicago, leading to hazardous travel conditions. On the ground, drivers on Interstate 55 experienced flooded roads, with video footage showing vehicles struggling through knee-deep waters. Authorities had to implement a ground stop at Chicago Midway and O’Hare airports. Inbound and outbound flights were delayed as a result of thunderstorms and water accumulation on runways.
Advertisement
One significant report detailed flooding in Naperville, Burr Ridge, and Washington Park, which, combined with strong thunderstorms, caused visibility to drop and roads to become impassable. Despite efforts to pump water from flooded viaducts, some locations remained submerged, with trapped vehicles requiring rescue.
Impact on Air Travel: Ground Stops and Delays at Major Airports
Travelers at Chicago Midway and Chicago O’Hare International Airport faced extensive delays due to the flooding. Midway reported receiving nearly 1.5 inches of rain within just 37 minutes. In total, the storm dumped nearly 2.77 inches at Midway in a span of 90 minutes, halting air traffic.
These delays came at a peak time, exacerbating the travel chaos as thousands of passengers were stranded or unable to board their flights. Passengers on inbound flights were informed of delays due to heavy thunderstorms in the area. Ground staff struggled to manage the situation, as the airfields required time to clear the water from crucial operational zones.
Unprecedented Flooding Impacts Local Infrastructure and Roadways
The National Weather Service confirmed that the flooding caused high water levels at several viaducts and underpasses in the city, submerging parts of Interstate 55 and other crucial roadways. Viaducts near Drake Avenue and 47th Street were particularly impacted, leaving commuters stranded and creating a hazardous environment for drivers.
In addition, flooding caused severe disruptions to the Mount Greenwood area, where low water pressure resulted from an electrical issue at a pumping station. Local infrastructure struggles compounded the problems as the city’s drainage systems became overwhelmed.
Further Travel Disruptions Expected as More Storms Hit Chicago
The weather forecast predicts continued heavy rainfall throughout the weekend. Local meteorologists from ABC7 Chicago warned of another round of storms expected to hit Saturday afternoon, with the possibility of isolated tornadoes. The weather service confirmed the potential for additional flash flooding, with some regions still facing up to 2 inches of rain per hour. Travelers were urged to avoid non-essential travel as conditions worsened.
As Chicago recovers from the initial wave of storms, additional rain is expected to complicate efforts to clear flooded streets and restore normal operations at airports. The rain, while expected to taper off by Sunday, is anticipated to worsen traffic and commute conditions across the city.
Government and Weather Authority Advisory for Travelers
The National Weather Service issued an advisory urging residents to take immediate safety measures if they live along creeks or near bodies of water. With more rain anticipated, the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) reiterated the importance of safety during flooding. The authorities provided the usual safety tips such as turn around, don’t drown and advised travelers to check road conditions before setting out on their journeys.
Further Airport Disruptions
For passengers flying in or out of Midway or O’Hare, officials recommended checking the status of their flights ahead of time. With more storms brewing, delays and cancellations are expected to persist throughout the weekend, as crews work to clear water and restore normal airport operations.
In related updates, passengers flying with American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines faced extended delays, with some flights diverted due to stormy conditions in the area. Passengers are being encouraged to confirm the status of their flights to avoid unnecessary wait times.
Travel Advisory: Airports and Major Roadways Affected
- Chicago Midway and O’Hare Airports: Long delays and temporary ground stops have led to significant travel disruptions. Flights departing and arriving from these airports have been delayed by up to 45 minutes.
- Interstate 55: Flooded, with road closures in place and motorists trapped in submerged viaducts.
- Cook and DuPage Counties: Flash flood warnings are still in effect, and conditions are worsening with continuous rainfall expected through the weekend.
Advertisement
Please visit:
Our Sponsor