200 Locations With Tree Damage, 3,200 Have No Power In Evanston

EVANSTON, IL — After Tuesday night's severe thunderstorms downed trees and power lines around Evanston, city forestry crews have been working overnight to clear streets and sidewalks of potential hazards.

Multiple instances of downed electrical lines with live wires were reported from the storm. City staff Wednesday said public works crews were continuing to check out reports of malfunctioning traffic signals and other hazards resulting from the storm.

More than 200 locations with tree damage have been reported, according to city staff. And, as of 9 a.m., about 3,200 ComEd customers in Evanston still had no electricity.

Power company representatives estimate the service will be restored for 80 percent of affected households by 11 p.m. Wednesday. But some may have to wait until Friday afternoon for the power to come back on, according to an announcement from the city.

Programs have been cancelled at the city's Chandler-Newberger Center, which had no power Wednesday morning, it said.

Residents without electricity or air conditioning may take advantage of Evanston's public cooling centers,

The Evanston Public Library at 1703 Orrington Ave. is open from noon until 6 p.m., the Levy Senior Center at 300 Dodge Ave. is open until 7 p.m. and the Robert Crown Community Center and Library at 1801 Main St. is open until 9 p.m.

Downed trees and limbs, issues with traffic signals, flooding or other non-emergency issues can be reported online or by calling or texting 847-448-4311 or 311 inside Evanston. Power outages and downed power lines can be reported to ComEd 24 hours a day by calling 800-EDISON-1.

A fresh severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Cook County until 10:45 a.m. Wednesday. A severe thunderstorm watch is set to last until 1 p.m.

Related: Storm Warnings, Watches Issued For Chicago Area