Tornadoes Hit South Suburbs, Causing Damage and Power Outages

Confirmed Tornadoes

The National Weather Service confirmed an EF-1 tornado passed through Hazel Crest, Homewood, Country Club Hills, and Harvey on Monday. Another EF-0 tornado hit Orland Park. In total, three tornadoes struck the south suburbs, including a previously confirmed EF-1 tornado in Lansing.

“It’s an act of God,” said Nakita Cloud, Hazel Crest spokesperson. “All the storms are acts of God, but this one caused much more damage.”

Impact on Hazel Crest

Hazel Crest experienced power outages, prompting officials to advise residents to stay indoors due to downed power lines. Cloud stressed caution, especially for pets and children, around potentially live power lines.

“Children might not notice that many trees have power lines mixed in,” Cloud added. “This is not the area to play in.”

Homewood’s Extensive Damage

Homewood Mayor Rich Hofeld described the storm’s aftermath, with many intersections without traffic signals and electricity outages affecting significant parts of the town. Essential services like the village hall operated on generators.

“We’re helping each other because of Mother Nature,” Hofeld said.

Community Surveys and Shelter Assistance

Homewood encouraged residents to fill out a damage survey by Aug. 5. The Red Cross opened a shelter at the Louis Sherman Community Center in Steger, providing displaced residents with food, charging stations, and sleeping areas.

“The community’s response with clothes donations was overwhelming,” said Fay Kiaurakis, the center’s director.

Efforts in Other Areas

Crete residents Seldon and Deborah Ledford faced a flooded basement and power outage. Their home had not flooded in 23 years.

Orland Park Mayor Jim Dodge reported restored power in most areas, with 600 to 1,000 residents still affected by outage.

“Whether straight-line winds or a tornado, parts of Orland were impacted hard,” Dodge stated. “No injuries or severe structural damage occurred.”

Lansing’s Preparedness Challenges

Significant damage occurred in Lansing’s blocks around Oakwood Estates, with cleanup ongoing. Lansing’s village preparedness coordinator Dennis Murrin noted it as a rare tornado occurrence.

“This storm was far more severe than any I’ve seen,” Murrin said.