Tornado Causes Extensive Damage in Hickory Hills and Surrounding Areas

Residents in Hickory Hills and Bridgeview surveyed their surroundings on Friday, observing significant damage caused by a recent tornado. The storm left a noticeable impact, including a roof torn off and a piece of wood lodged into a garage. Additionally, a highway sign was split in half nearby.

Melissa Alvarez, a resident, remarked that many people agreed the destruction resembled the aftermath of a tornado. The National Weather Service confirmed on Monday that a tornado had indeed swept through the area with wind speeds ranging from 111 to 135 mph.

This tornado, moving from Hickory Hills to the Midway Airport region, was one of 17 that hit the area on Thursday night. Alvarez mentioned that power was finally restored to her building on Sunday night, allowing her to return. However, the building had suffered considerable damage to its roof, and Alvarez expressed uncertainty about whether a safety inspection had been done.

Impact on Hickory Hills

Mayor Mike Howley of Hickory Hills was attending a City Council meeting when the storm occurred. He only grasped the magnitude of the damage the following day through photos showing downed poles and live wires.

You could feel the windows being pulled inward.

Howley noted that the storm caused widespread power outages and a water main break. Several utility poles were also knocked down. Fortunately, no fatalities or injuries were reported, but around 12% of the town remained without electricity on Monday afternoon. City departments are working tirelessly to clear debris. Howley also cautioned residents about potential scammers offering false services.

The National Weather Service has indicated that initial tornado ratings and assessments are subject to further analysis.

Calumet City Storm Damage

Calumet City experienced its own devastation from the same storm system. The city’s Emergency Services reported fallen trees, damaged power lines, and several impacted properties. A significant tree uprooted near 156th Street and Buffalo Avenue.

This wasn’t an ordinary storm; it had to be stronger.

Mayor Thaddeus Jones commented that some trees, over a century old, fell onto homes and vehicles, with most of the city facing power outages. A tree fell on a woman’s house, disrupting gas and power lines. She was hospitalized but released the following day, and her home faces demolition.

Jones noted that housing support would be necessary for those affected, likely involving the Red Cross and donations. The city mobilized a substantial response team of 56 personnel from the Police and Fire Departments, along with tree services, to tackle the storm’s aftermath. Police have conducted wellness checks, and residents have been actively contacting the city for assistance or to extend their gratitude.

Residents were advised to remain vigilant around damaged trees, utility lines, and ongoing cleanup operations.