Hurricane-force winds were also reported in parts of the area. Wind gusts topped out at 81 mph in Valparaiso, Indiana, 75 mph in Lakes of the Four Seasons in Indiana, and 74 mph in Gary, Indiana, and Lynwood, Illinois.

A semi driver was killed in Valparaiso as strong winds moved through the area, knocking out power for thousands, officials said. The storms uprooted trees, downed power lines, and damaged several homes,

Chicago will experience a mix of rain, storms, and unseasonably warm temperatures this weekend before a cold front brings a sharp drop and possible snow early next week.

Crews have been busy the past two days repairing damage, including downed wires and at least 130 broken utility poles.

A warm front is expected to move through the Chicago area this weekend, increasing the risk for potentially strong storms on Sunday.

The ground stops, which ended at 8 a.m. impacted departures to both Midway and O'Hare airports, according to the FAA.

The Chicago area will have a mostly clear evening with breezy and mild temps in the upper 50s and low 60s, followed by partial clouds overnight.Scattered showers for Saturday, with a few rumbles of thunder possible.