🌱 Chicago Floods Paralyzed City + Storms Cancel NASCAR Festival

Good morning, Chicago! I'm Kaytlyn Smith and I'll be your new source for all the events, news, and general happenings in your town. Here is everything you need to know today in five minutes or less.

But first, today's weather:

Mostly sunny and hot. High: 91 Low: 74.

Here are the top three stories in Chicago today:

1. Severe rainfall caused widespread flooding in Chicago, resulting in the closure of expressways and the reversal of the Chicago River's flow. Residents were urged to conserve water as the heavy rains overwhelmed the city's infrastructure. The downpour also disrupted sporting events, including the NASCAR Street Race and a Cubs game, causing delays. Some areas received up to 8 inches of rain in less than 24 hours, setting records for daily rainfall totals at Chicago's O'Hare Airport and leading to significant impacts on the region. (NBC Chicago)
2. Severe storms and heavy rain forced the cancellation of concerts during the NASCAR Chicago Street Race festival, disappointing ticket holders who were looking forward to performances by The Chainsmokers and Miranda Lambert, among others. The adverse weather conditions also led to the shortening of the inaugural Grant Park 220 race and declared Cole Custer as the winner of the Loop 121 Race. NASCAR officials decided not to resume the NASCAR Xfinity Series event on Monday, despite the option, in the spirit of their strong partnership with the city of Chicago. (NBC Chicago)
3. Ten states, including Illinois, are preparing to sue the EPA over its alleged failure to review and enforce emissions standards for residential wood-burning stoves. The states claim that the continued sale of appliances that contribute to pollution has undermined air quality improvement programs. A report by the EPA's Office of Inspector General highlighted flaws in the agency's 2015 performance standards and expressed concerns about the certification process, emphasizing the potential waste of public funds if replacement models do not meet emission standards. (WGN9)

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Today in Chicago:

Tuesday, July 4

• 4th On 53rd Parade And Festival 2023 At Nichols Park Fieldhouse (11:00 AM)
• Party Noire Presents: Black Pride At The Promontory (3:00 PM)
• Sounds Of The South Summer Music Fest At 2330 S. Ashland Ave. (3:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Are you looking for somewhere to watch the fireworks tonight? Check out the list of events at the link. (Chicago Patch)
• The Chicago Symphony Orchestra celebrated a fantastic 2022-2023 season, including Ricardo Muti's final year as music director. (Chicago Symphony Orchestra via Instagram)
• In case you missed it: The swimming ban at all beaches besides Marion Mahony Griffin Beach has been lifted. (Chicago Park District via Facebook)

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Thanks for following along and staying informed. I'll see you soon!

— Kaytlyn Smith

About me: Kaytlyn Smith is a managing editor at Lightning Media Partners – a content creation agency. She is a Rowan University graduate where she earned a bachelor's degree in journalism and a master's degree in writing. Outside of work, Kaytlyn is a dog mom to a boglen terrier named Finn and a golden retriever named Willow.