Chicago Faces Severe Weather Threat Amid Persistent Wildfire Smoke
The Chicago area is currently experiencing a combination of severe weather threats and persistent wildfire smoke. According to the Storm Prediction Center, the region is at a 'slight' risk of severe weather, with potential for heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and hail as a weather system moves in from Wisconsin. The NBC 5 Storm Team reports that these storms could lead to localized flooding and winds exceeding 60 miles per hour. Additionally, there is a small chance of hail and an isolated tornado. The storms are expected to persist past midnight, particularly affecting the southern suburbs, with rain subsiding by Tuesday morning. Concurrently, the area is dealing with smoke from Canadian and Minnesota wildfires, which has led to an air quality alert. Although the smoke is expected to begin clearing by late Tuesday, it may continue to affect air quality depending on wind patterns. 
