Gunfire Hits Repair Truck, Storms Ground Air Show: Chicago’s Wild Weekend
Storm Recovery Continues Across Chicago and Indiana: What You Need to Know
Quick Summary: After days of historic storms, cleanup is underway across the Chicago area and Indiana. Six people have died, federal help is arriving, and crews are working to restore power—though one scary incident in Gary briefly paused those efforts. More rain is possible Sunday, but relief is coming next week.
What Happened? The Big Picture
Think of this like a really bad week of weather that just wouldn’t quit. Starting Tuesday, multiple rounds of severe storms slammed Indiana and the Chicago area, bringing:
- Historic rainfall that made rivers overflow their banks
- Straight-line winds (super strong straight winds, not spinning like a tornado)
- Tornadoes touching down in several spots
- Widespread flooding and massive power outages
The Human Impact: By the Numbers
| Impact | Details |
|---|---|
| Deaths | 6 total in Indiana (3 in Chicago-area counties: Lake, Porter, LaPorte) |
| Disaster Declaration | Indiana Governor Mike Braun declared statewide emergency Friday |
| Federal Help | President Trump approved FEMA disaster assistance Saturday evening |
| Power Outages | Thousands still without electricity since Tuesday |
IMPORTANT: FEMA assistance covers "severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding beginning on August 11, 2026, and continuing." If you have damage, document everything with photos and keep receipts for any emergency repairs.
The Scary Incident in Gary, Indiana
What Happened?
- When: Around 1:30 a.m. Saturday
- Where: 200 block of Rutledge Street, Gary
- Who: Two NIPSCO (electric company) workers in a small SUV
- What: Their vehicle was hit by gunfire twice while they were surveying storm damage
The Good News
No one was injured
Police are investigating (checking if it was targeted or random)
Indiana State Police are sending extra troopers to protect crews
Work resumed Saturday evening after a brief pause
The Frustration
Many Gary residents have been without power since Tuesday. When they heard restoration paused—even briefly—they were understandably upset:
"It’s utterly disgusting… but this should’ve been a priority." — Kenneth Lewis, resident
"We’re number one in terms of outages, but last in terms of service." — Steven Levy, resident
Event Cancellations & Delays
| Event | Status | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Gary Air Show (next weekend) | CANCELLED | First responders needed for cleanup |
| Chicago Air & Water Show (Saturday) | DELAYED until noon | Low clouds, rain, safety checks with FAA |
| Chicago Air & Water Show (Sunday) | ON TRACK | Forecast looks better after morning storms |
Weather Forecast: What’s Next?
Saturday Night → Sunday Morning
- Possible storms: 3 a.m. – 8 a.m. Sunday
- Heavy rain possible in Chicago area
- Stay alert if you’re in a flood-prone area
Sunday Afternoon → Next Week
- Sunday afternoon: Mostly dry, low 80s
- Monday–Friday: Limited rain chances
- Finally: Some relief for hardest-hit areas!
What Should YOU Do Right Now?
If You Have Storm Damage (Cook County Residents)
- Document everything — photos, videos of damage
- Complete the official survey by August 24:
Cook County Damage Survey - Keep receipts for any emergency repairs or hotel stays
- Contact your insurance — start the claims process ASAP
If You’re Without Power
- Report outages to NIPSCO (or your local utility)
- Stay safe — don’t touch downed wires!
- Check on neighbors, especially elderly or vulnerable folks
- Use generators OUTSIDE only — never in garage or house
If More Storms Come Sunday
- Have a way to get alerts (phone alerts, weather radio)
- Know your safe spot (basement, interior room, no windows)
- Don’t drive through flooded roads — "Turn around, don’t drown!"
- Charge devices now while you have power
Helpful Resources: Live Radar Links
| Area | Live Radar |
|---|---|
| Cook County | Radar |
| DuPage County | Radar |
| Will County | Radar |
| Lake County (IL) | Radar |
| Kane County | Radar |
| Northwest Indiana | Radar |
Summary: Key Takeaways
- Historic storms hit Tuesday onward — 6 deaths in Indiana, major flooding
- Federal disaster aid approved — FEMA help is coming to Indiana
- Power restoration ongoing — brief pause in Gary after crew vehicle shot at (no injuries)
- Residents frustrated — days without power, want faster action
- More storms possible Sunday morning — then drying out next week
- Document damage & fill out survey if you’re in Cook County (deadline Aug 24)
- Stay weather-aware — keep alerts on, have a plan
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Is FEMA help available for Illinois too, or just Indiana?
Right now, the Presidential Emergency Declaration is for Indiana only (starting Aug 11). Illinois counties may get separate declarations—check with local emergency management.
What does "straight-line winds" mean?
Think of a giant hair dryer blast—strong winds pushing straight out from a storm (not spinning like a tornado). They can hit 60–100+ mph and knock down trees/power lines just like a weak tornado.
My power’s been out since Tuesday. Is there a way to get updates on MY street?
Yes! Check NIPSCO’s outage map online or call their outage line. You can also sign up for text alerts. Crews are working 16-hour shifts with help from other states.
Should I still go to the Chicago Air & Water Show Sunday?
The show plans to run Sunday (10:30 a.m.–5 p.m.). But check ABC7’s live updates morning-of for any weather delays.
What if I can’t afford repairs after the storm?
FEMA assistance (for Indiana residents) can include grants for temporary housing, home repairs, and other serious needs. Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362 once the declaration is fully active.
Stay safe, stay informed, and look out for each other. This community has been through a lot—but help is coming, and clearer skies are ahead.