Is lightning near Chicago right now?
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Free push alert when lightning approaches Chicago. Your exact location and alerts live in the app.
Thunderstorm season near Chicago
Chicago sits in Illinois, which averages about 42 thunderstorm days a year — roughly 1.7× the US average of 25. Lightning near Chicago is most frequent April–September.
- IL thunderstorm days/yr
- 42
- Peak season
- April–September
- vs US average
- 1.7×
State-level NOAA climatology; a city-specific thunderstorm-day normal isn’t published for every station.
Lightning safety in Chicago
When thunderstorms build over Chicago, the distance to the nearest strike matters more than a city-wide count. Use the 30-30 rule: if thunder follows lightning by 30 seconds or less, get indoors, and wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before heading back out. StrikeCast surfaces the distance and trend so you can act before the storm reaches you.
Frequently asked
How far away is the nearest lightning to Chicago?
StrikeCast shows the live distance in miles to the nearest strike near Chicago, updated continuously from NOAA GOES-GLM satellite data, plus whether it is approaching or moving away.
Is it safe to be outside in Chicago right now?
If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck. Follow the 30-30 rule: shelter when thunder follows lightning by 30 seconds or less, and wait 30 minutes after the last thunder. StrikeCast's distance and trend help you decide before the storm arrives.
When is thunderstorm season in Chicago?
Chicago sees the most lightning April–September, averaging about undefined thunderstorm days a year.
Can I get lightning alerts for Chicago?
Yes. Get the free StrikeCast app, save Chicago, and you will get a push alert when lightning approaches — no need to keep the app open.