9
Extreme
High Wind Risk in Chicago, IL
Risk Level: Extreme — Score 9/10
FEMA: 9Historical: 7
Key Risk Factors
- FEMA rates Chicago's county as Very High risk for this hazard
- Estimated annual loss of $12M from this hazard type
- 12 events recorded in proximity in recent decades
- 12 events in the last 12 months indicate ongoing risk
- Average annual frequency: 5.7 events per year
Last significant event: Gale - Lake Michigan shoreline, Illinois/Indiana, United States (2026-02-27) — 601 people exposed
Highest Risk Cities for High Winds
2
Chicago, IL
FEMA: 9Historical: 7
How Chicago Compares
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Notable High Wind Events Near Chicago
Gale - Chicago area, United States
December 9, 2025 — WATCH
601 people exposed; $27,617M capital exposed
Gale - Chicago-area Lake Michigan shoreline, IL _ IN, United States
January 8, 2026 — WARNING
601 people exposed; $27,617M capital exposed
Gale - Chicago Lake Michigan shoreline, United States
February 17, 2026 — WARNING
597 people exposed; $25,306M capital exposed
Gale - Lake Michigan shoreline, Illinois/Indiana, United States
February 26, 2026 — WATCH
601 people exposed; $27,617M capital exposed
Gale - Lake Michigan shoreline, Illinois, United States
February 19, 2026 — WARNING
548 people exposed; $19,901M capital exposed
High Wind Preparedness Tips
- 1.Secure loose outdoor items — patio furniture, trash cans, decorations
- 2.Trim trees and remove dead branches that could fall on structures
- 3.Reinforce garage doors and ensure roof shingles are properly fastened
- 4.Avoid driving high-profile vehicles during high wind warnings
- 5.Stay away from windows during severe wind events
Related Pages
Earthquake Risk in Chicago
Score: 7/10
Wildfire Risk in Chicago
Score: 1/10
Hurricane Risk in Chicago
Score: 1/10
Flood Risk in Chicago
Score: 9/10
Tornado Risk in Chicago
Score: 9/10
Winter Storm Risk in Chicago
Score: 9/10
Landslide Risk in Chicago
Score: 1/10
Extreme Heat Risk in Chicago
Score: 9/10
Drought Risk in Chicago
Score: 1/10
Tsunami Risk in Chicago
Score: 0/10
High Wind Risk in Milwaukee, WI
Score: 7/10
High Wind Risk in Indianapolis, IN
Score: 9/10
High Wind Risk in Louisville, KY
Score: 7/10
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