Storms blow into Chicago area; severe T-storm warnings issued

CHICAGO (CBS) — After a very hot and humid afternoon, with heat index values above 110 degrees in many spots, severe storms blew into the Chicago area Tuesday night. 
The main concern will come from storms producing damaging winds. Some hail-producing storms will also be possible.
A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued until 11 p.m. for all the counties in the CBS Chicago viewing area with the exception of LaPorte County, Indiana.
Severe thunderstorm warnings were issued through the late afternoon and evening. One remains in effect until 7:15 p.m. for downtown Chicago, the city’s North, Northwest, and West sides, and the north and northwest suburbs in Cook County.
Rain was pouring in the Loop as of 7:11 p.m., accompanied by bolts of lightning and rumbling thunder.
Strong winds associated with the storm in the north and northwest suburbs disrupted inbound and outbound Metra service on the Union Pacific North and Northwest lines.
Golf ball-sized hail was also a concern.
CHECK: Metra updates
Showers linger overnight and into early Wednesday. Lows will be in the mid-70s Tuesday night.
Wednesday and Thursday are less hot, with highs in the low to mid-80s. The coolest temperatures will be near the lake.
Still humid, though, with heat index values in the 90s. A 30% chance of showers and storms will also remain. Scattered storms for Friday as a front moves into the area. Highs will be in the 80s, then fall to the 60s Friday night. 
Cooling temperatures and falling humidity are forecasted for a great holiday weekend. We’ll be in the low 70s for Labor Day Monday into Tuesday of next week. 
There are 50 Chicago cooling centers offering relief from the dangerous heat. Some of the center locations below will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 
Residents can also visit any Chicago Public Library or Park District Fieldhouse. 
A map of cooling centers is available here.