What began as another sweltering summer afternoon quickly turned into one of the most destructive weather events the southwest suburbs have seen in years.
Residents across Palos Park, Palos Heights and Orland Park watched ominous skies darken Monday afternoon before powerful thunderstorms unleashed destructive winds, torrential rain and possible tornadoes that toppled towering trees, damaged homes and businesses, and knocked out power to thousands.
The National Weather Service issued multiple tornado warnings Monday as the storms swept across northern Illinois. Radar indicated areas of rotation near Orland Park, prompting warnings for surrounding communities, including Palos Park and Palos Heights. Meteorologists also reported a possible rain-wrapped tornado near Orland Park, although damage surveys are still underway to determine whether a tornado touched down…