28/02/2024
The National Weather Service has recorded at least five tornado sightings, including three near DeKalb, approximately 60 miles (97km) west of Chicago.
Reports indicate wind gusts surpassing 60mph, resulting in the downing of trees and light poles and widespread power outages in the area.
Thankfully, there have been no casualties reported.
Experts attribute this weather phenomenon to a combination of the El Nino pattern and climate change.
Numerous cities in the US and Canada have experienced record February temperatures this week, resembling summer conditions.
Chicago residents embraced the unusual warmth, only to face a sudden shift to wintry temperatures.
The National Weather Service described Chicago's weather as having summer, spring, autumn, and winter all packed into a 24-hour period, deeming it "absolutely brutal."
Over 30 flights were canceled at Chicago's O'Hare international airport on Tuesday night, with footage showing crowds seeking shelter inside the airport.
The Chicago Department of the Environment points to these temperature swings as an example of the unpredictable weather associated with climate change.
The Midwest, spanning around a dozen states, has encountered heavy snowfall, severe thunderstorms, and golf ball-sized hail, prompting advisories for people to stay off the roads due to hazardous conditions.
