Strongest storm since October of 2014 hitting Chicago

FOX 32 NEWS - Chicago hasn’t seen a storm system this strong, in terms of wind gusts, since October of 2014. That storm system brought wind gusts 50 to 60 mph from the north and northeast and generated huge waves along the lakefront, washing out parts of the bike path.

This storm system will be identical in terms of strong winds and huge waves. A Lakeshore Flood Warning goes into effect at 4:00 am Thursday and continues until 1:00 am Friday. Wind gusts up to 50 mph along the Illinois and Indiana lakefronts are possible along with wave heights 12 to 22 feet. Coastal flooding and beach erosion is possible, mainly across NW Indiana.

In addition, 1-2 inches of rain may fall before this storm system pulls out early Thursday afternoon. Some of the rain may mix with snow, especially in NW Indiana and lower Michigan. Not much accumulation is expected.

After Thursday, Spring-like temps return just in time for the weekend.

In addition to the Lakeshore Flood Warning, a High Wind Warning is in effect late Wednesday night through Thursday afternoon with wind gusts near the lake from 40 to 60 mph.

Pedestrians and bikers are strongly encouraged to keep away from the lakefront.