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ComEd Warns of Extended Power Outages in Illinois Due to Severe Storms

ComEd Warns of Extended Power Outages in Illinois Due to Severe Storms

ComEd has issued a warning to Illinois residents about potential extended power outages following severe storms that have hit the region. The company reported that at the peak of the storms, over 530,000 customers were without power, with significant damage reported in areas such as Maywood, Crestwood, and Bolingbrook. ComEd is working to restore power, estimating that 80% of homes will have power by Wednesday noon, but some may remain without electricity until Friday evening. The storms have caused widespread damage, including downed trees and power lines, complicating restoration efforts.

Severe Storms Hit Midwest, West Michigan Avoids Major Damage

Severe Storms Hit Midwest, West Michigan Avoids Major Damage

Severe thunderstorms swept through parts of the Midwest on Monday, causing significant damage in states like Wisconsin and Illinois. The storms, which developed late Monday morning, brought high winds, large hail, and tornadoes. In Wisconsin, a powerful tornado near Appleton was preliminarily rated as an EF3 by the National Weather Service. In Illinois and Indiana, multiple tornadoes were confirmed, along with reports of high winds and large hail. A hailstone measuring 4.5 inches in diameter was reported near Green Bay, Wisconsin. The storms also caused flash flooding in the Chicago area. As the storm system moved across Lake Michigan, it weakened significantly before reaching West Michigan, which received much-needed rain without the severe weather experienced by neighboring states.

Labor Unions Support Data Center Construction Amid Environmental Concerns

Labor Unions Support Data Center Construction Amid Environmental Concerns

Across the United States, there is a growing movement against the construction of data centers due to environmental concerns. These centers, which are essential for the operation of artificial intelligence technologies, require significant amounts of electricity and water, raising issues about their environmental impact. Despite these concerns, labor unions are advocating for the construction of data centers, viewing them as opportunities to create well-paying union jobs. This has created a political tension, particularly within the Democratic Party, as both labor unions and environmental groups are key components of its coalition. Labor unions argue that with proper regulation, data centers can be built responsibly, providing economic benefits without compromising environmental standards.

Tornado Causes Destruction in Wisconsin, Damages Homes and Vehicles

Tornado Causes Destruction in Wisconsin, Damages Homes and Vehicles

A devastating tornado struck Wisconsin, causing significant destruction to homes and vehicles. The tornado left a trail of damage, with video footage showing mangled vehicles on highways and destroyed houses. In Illinois, the storm also resulted in downed trees crashing into homes and cars. The severe weather event has prompted emergency responses and assessments of the damage caused by the tornado.

Governor Pritzker Enacts Statewide School Cellphone Ban to Enhance Student Focus

Governor Pritzker Enacts Statewide School Cellphone Ban to Enhance Student Focus

Governor JB Pritzker of Illinois has signed a new law mandating a 'bell-to-bell' ban on cellphones and other personal electronic devices in all public schools across the state. This legislation, effective before the 2027-2028 school year, aims to minimize distractions and enhance the learning environment for students. The law requires school districts to implement policies that restrict the use of wireless communication devices during school hours, with exceptions for medical needs, special education, and language translation. The initiative is designed to allow students to focus more on their education and interpersonal skills without the interference of digital devices. The law also prohibits punitive measures such as fines or suspensions for enforcement, unless the device is used for gross misconduct.

Evanston Implements Stormwater Master Plan to Mitigate Flooding Risks

Evanston Implements Stormwater Master Plan to Mitigate Flooding Risks

Evanston, Illinois, is taking proactive steps to address the increasing risks of street and basement flooding caused by climate change. The city's 2023 Stormwater Master Plan, presented in May 2025, outlines a series of green and gray infrastructure projects aimed at improving stormwater management. Key initiatives include the Mason Park Expansion Project, which combines bioswales and storm sewers to separate street stormwater from combined sewers, and two additional conceptual projects targeting flood-prone areas near Dewey Avenue and Cleveland Street. The plan also incorporates permeable pavements and rain gardens to manage runoff effectively. These measures aim to reduce the burden on the city's combined sewer system and mitigate flooding risks in vulnerable neighborhoods.

Thomas Nolan, Influential Social Service Lobbyist, Passes Away at 83

Thomas Nolan, Influential Social Service Lobbyist, Passes Away at 83

Thomas Nolan, a prominent figure in Illinois' social service and healthcare lobbying, has died at the age of 83 due to complications from pulmonary fibrosis. Nolan was known for his extensive career in government consulting and lobbying, particularly in advocating for reforms in the state's childcare system and healthcare services for the poor. He began his career in 1966 with Catholic Charities of Chicago and later founded his own firm, where he worked for over four decades. Nolan was respected for his dedication to social service issues and his ability to navigate the legislative process effectively.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for Parts of Indiana and Illinois

Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for Parts of Indiana and Illinois

The National Weather Service's Storm Prediction Center has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for parts of east-central Illinois and central Indiana. The watch is in effect from 2:40 PM until 9:00 PM EDT. The primary threats include widespread damaging winds, isolated significant gusts up to 80 mph, and the possibility of large hail and tornadoes. An intensifying cluster of thunderstorms is expected to move southward through a moist and unstable air mass, posing a risk of severe weather conditions.

Base Power Introduces Battery Backup System for ComEd Customers Amid Rising Electricity Costs

Base Power Introduces Battery Backup System for ComEd Customers Amid Rising Electricity Costs

Base Power Introduces Battery Backup System for ComEd Customers Amid Rising Electricity Costs

Severe Storms Leave Thousands Without Power in Illinois and NW Indiana

Severe Storms Leave Thousands Without Power in Illinois and NW Indiana

Severe storms in Illinois and Northwest Indiana have left thousands without power, with two tornadoes confirmed in Lansing and Glen Ellyn. The storms caused significant damage, including uprooted trees and damaged homes. ComEd reported over 530,000 customers lost power, with restoration efforts ongoing. The storms prompted tornado and thunderstorm warnings across the region, and the National Weather Service is assessing the damage.

Governor Pritzker Enacts Illinois School Cell Phone Ban to Enhance Classroom Focus

Governor Pritzker Enacts Illinois School Cell Phone Ban to Enhance Classroom Focus

Governor JB Pritzker has signed a new piece of legislation that mandates public schools in Illinois to ban the use of cell phones and other mobile devices in classrooms. This move aims to minimize distractions and improve the learning environment for students. The legislation reflects growing concerns about the impact of mobile devices on students' attention spans and academic performance. By prohibiting these devices during class time, the state hopes to foster a more focused and engaging educational experience. The ban is part of a broader initiative to address educational challenges and enhance student outcomes across Illinois.

Illinois Implements Social Media Platform Fee Affecting User Data Collection

Illinois Implements Social Media Platform Fee Affecting User Data Collection

On June 16, 2026, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed into law the Illinois Fiscal Year 2027 Budget, which includes a new Social Media Platform Fee. This fee, effective January 1, 2027, requires certain social media platforms to pay a monthly fee based on the number of Illinois users from whom they collect data. Unlike traditional digital taxes, this fee is not based on income or advertising revenue but rather on the size of the platform's Illinois user base. The law also prohibits platforms from passing this fee onto users through differential pricing or features based on geographic location. The fee structure varies depending on the number of users, with specific rates for different user thresholds. The law includes enforcement provisions, allowing the Illinois Secretary of State to audit platforms and impose penalties for non-compliance.