Massive Dust Storm Engulfs Chicago and Western Suburbs, Triggering Life-Threatening Travel Conditions and Widespread Disruptions

CHICAGO, IL — On Friday, May 16, 2025, a severe dust storm swept across the Chicago metropolitan area and its western suburbs, creating hazardous travel conditions, reducing visibility to near zero in some areas, and prompting multiple weather advisories. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued Dust Storm Warnings for several counties, including Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, and Kane, effective until 8:30 p.m., and for Grundy, Kankakee, Kendall, LaSalle, and Will counties until 7:30 p.m. (ABC7 Chicago)

The storm originated in east-central and eastern Illinois earlier in the afternoon, driven by strong wind gusts sweeping across dry, open terrain. As it advanced toward the Chicago area, residents and storm spotters captured video footage showing large clouds of dust engulfing roadways, creating near whiteout conditions in some areas.

In McLean County, the NWS reported near zero visibility with damaging wind gusts of up to 60 miles per hour, leading to “dangerous, life-threatening” travel conditions. An emergency manager reported a multiple-vehicle accident on I-74 in DeWitt County, highlighting the storm’s impact on transportation. (https://www.25newsnow.com)

Officials have urged drivers to use extreme caution and avoid travel if possible as the storm progresses. If caught in a dust storm while driving, the NWS advises pulling off the road as far as safely possible, turning off lights, and keeping your foot off the brake pedal to avoid being rear-ended.

Residents with respiratory conditions, such as asthma or COPD, are encouraged to stay indoors and limit exposure to airborne dust particles. The NWS is monitoring the situation and may issue additional advisories or warnings as conditions evolve.