Storms hit Chicago area, heavy rains inundate Illinois State Fair

The rainfall certainly slowed down the commute for drivers, but at least there was no serious damage.

As of Thursday night, rain continued to fall on many parts of Chicago and the suburbs.

Lots of lightning was also reported throughout the area, with some big strikes hitting the Willis Tower and the John Hancock Center.

Heavy rains also inundated parts of central Illinois including campers at the Illinois State fair in Springfield.

The Springfield State Journal-Register reports firefighters are going camper to camper to check on the welfare of those inside after several feet of water surrounded the units.

The newspaper says a woman had to be pulled from her submerged car in Springfield.

The fair closed early, causing the cancellation of a Grandstand concert by Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo and Melissa Etheridge.

The National Weather Service reports more than 5 inches of rain fell at Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport within two hours.

Police reported water over parts of Interstate 155 and a car in a ditch because of the high water in Tazewell County.

There were no immediate reports of injuries.

The storms will move on out of the area by 10:30 a.m. Saturday morning.