The Federal Aviation Administration imposed a ground stop for all flights bound for Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport until 11:15 a.m. Central Time and for Midway Airport until at least 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. This measure halted departures from certain U.S. airports heading to Chicago due to severe weather approaching the region.
Severe Weather Impact Across Chicago Area
An intense line of storms swept through Illinois and Indiana Tuesday, producing destructive wind gusts up to 100 miles per hour, brief tornadoes, and heavy rainfall. The Chicago Department of Aviation confirmed that Midway Airport’s control tower was briefly evacuated as a precaution amid the severe
storm activity. The violent weather caused multiple trees and power lines to fall across the Chicago area.
Ongoing Flight Delays and Safety Measures
After the initial ground stop expires, O’Hare Airport will implement a ground delay program through 10 p.m. Central Time to manage arriving traffic safely. Flood warnings remain active for the greater Chicago area as the storms caused localized flooding. Flight disruptions persist at both Chicago airports, influenced by the ground stop and control tower evacuation during the intense weather event.
