The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) enforced a ground stop for flights to Chicago O’Hare International Airport until 11:15 a.m. Central Time and to Midway Airport until at least 11:30 a.m. on August 11, 2026. The ground stop applied to departures from selected U.S. airports bound for the Chicago area. Officials noted that the restriction for O’Hare departures could be extended as storm conditions persisted.
Severe Storms Disrupt Chicago Airspace
An intense storm system moved through Illinois and Indiana on August 11, bringing wind gusts up to 100 mph, brief tornadoes, and heavy rainfall affecting the Chicago metropolitan area. The Chicago Department of Aviation confirmed the
temporary evacuation of the Midway Airport control tower during the weather event. These conditions caused downed trees, power line outages, and flood warnings in the region.
Flight Delays and Extended Ground Delay Program at O’Hare
The ground stop delayed or held departures to both Chicago airports. Following the resumption of O’Hare departures, the FAA implemented a ground delay program that remained active until 10 p.m. Central Time to manage ongoing air traffic disruptions. The temporary evacuation of Midway’s control tower contributed to additional operational interruptions.
The FAA stated that the ground stop at O’Hare would remain in effect until 11:15 a.m. Central Time but could be prolonged subject to
storm development. The Chicago Department of Aviation verified the brief evacuation of Midway’s control tower. The severe weather alerts in Illinois on August 11 remained active throughout the disruption.
