Fri May 16 00:30:00 UTC 2025: **Severe Weather Delays Beyoncé Concert, Disrupts Travel in Chicago**
**CHICAGO, IL** – Severe thunderstorms sweeping through the Chicago area on Thursday have prompted widespread weather alerts, travel delays, and a postponement of Beyoncé’s highly anticipated “Cowboy Carter” concert at Soldier Field. A Tornado Watch is in effect for all of Chicagoland, including Northwest Indiana, until 10 p.m., with the potential for large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes.
The storms, fueled by record-breaking heat that saw O’Hare Airport reach a new record high of 92 degrees, have triggered a series of Severe Thunderstorm Warnings across numerous counties including Lake County, DuPage, Cook, Will, and McHenry. Wind gusts up to 60 mph and quarter-sized hail are possible in affected areas.
The extreme weather has impacted air travel significantly, with departures from O’Hare International Airport delayed by an average of 124 minutes, leading to a ground stop earlier in the day. Power outages have also been reported across the region.
At Soldier Field, fans have been ordered to shelter in place as they await word on the Beyoncé concert. The show, originally scheduled for 7 p.m., has been delayed, with organizers confirming that the performance will not begin before 9 p.m. The show must end by midnight. Despite the delays, excitement among fans remains high.
The National Weather Service issued that the storms could bring hail over 2 inches in diameter, 75+ mph wind gusts, and tornadoes rated EF-2 or stronger.
While clearing skies are expected Thursday night, the severe weather threat returns Friday afternoon and evening. The weekend is forecast to be calmer and cooler, with sunshine and highs in the 60s.
Residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions as the severe weather continues.
First Piper 