Storm Could Be Most Powerful in 70 Years

According to a CBS Chicago weather story, the National Weather Service reports that a storm coming to the Chicago area Tuesday will be the most powerful in 70 years.

Strong thunderstorms, followed by violent winds, will hit Tuesday and remain until Wednesday night.

There is a chance for tornadoes, according to CBS2's Mary Kleist. The storms will be the heaviest during Tuesday's rush hour.

The storms will pass by midday, but residents can then expect winds at 35 to 40 mph.

The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning from 7 a.m. Tuesday to 7 p.m. Wednesday. Winds are expected to be from 30 to 40 miles per hour, with the possibility of wind gusts to 60 miles per hour.

Here are some safety tips from a press release sent out from the City of Naperville on Monday:

• Be sure your property is secure. Remove overhanging branches near any structure; bring loose items indoors; and fully secure outdoor objects, such as patio furniture, garbage cans, or outdoor yard decorations that could blow away.
• Ensure windows are secure.
• Postpone outdoor activities if possible. The safest place to be during high winds is indoors. If you are caught outside during high winds, take cover next to a building or under shelter, watch for flying debris and stand clear of roadways or train tracks.
• If you are driving, keep both hands on the wheel and slow down. Watch for objects blowing across the roadway and into your path. Keep a safe distance from cars in adjacent lanes, and take extra care in a high-profile vehicle such as a truck, van or sport utility vehicle. If winds are severe enough to prevent safe driving, stop, get onto the shoulder of the road, turn on your hazard lights, make sure you are away from trees and other tall objects that could fall and wait until the wind subsides.

Emergency numbers:

Emergency: 911

Public Works Non-Emergency: 630-226-8800

Police Department Non-Emergency: 630-226-8600

Bolingbrook Fire Department Non-Emergency: 630-226-8540