The City was hit by a severe microburst of rain and hail just before 3 P.M. on Aug. 2 The brief storm has caused minor damage throughout the City and power outages.
Three people were struck by a tree branch at Dawes Park attending the Lakefront Arts Festival during the storm, two of whom were transported to Evanston Hospital with minor injuries.
Trees were reported down through the City. One tree caught fire on Warren Street and was quickly extinguished by the Evanston Fire Department. The Evanston Police Department received more than 80 calls just after the storm hit, reporting power outages and trees down. Public Works Forestry and Street Maintenance Division staff have been called in to handle service requests.
As of 5:15 P.M., ComEd is reporting more than1,000 residents without power, more than 800 of them between Main Street and South Boulevard, west of Ridge Avenue. Traffic signals are out in affected areas.
At 8 p.m., Forestry crews were still out handling 20 large trees that are down or severely damaged. Crews planned to work until dark to secure trees and remove from streets. Remaining cleanup will occur Monday, Aug. 3.
ComEd reported that 1,961 residents were without power at some point this afternoon. As of 8 P.M., 1,692 remained out of power mostly in south Evanston. Estimated time for restoration is 6 A.M. Aug. 3. Several lines were damaged by fallen trees.
On Aug. 3, City Manager Wally Bobkiewicz reported: “The City made it through the thunder and lightning show last night generally all right. One additional tree came down, bringing to a total of 25 for the day. All trees had been cleared from right of way last night. Crews will continue to remove trees and debris today.
Evanston Fire and Police reported no significant calls last night. ComEd continues to restore the remaining 150 or so customers without power.
My thanks to the outstanding work from Evanston Public Works, Police and Fire staff throughout the day. Special thanks to our Parks, Recreation and Community Services staff for wrapping up the Arts Festival on the lakefront quickly and without more significant damage or injuries.”
Residents should call 3-1-1 for further information or to report any other issues.