Chicago weather: Flooding in suburbs, Bridgeview power pole downed by lightning strike

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Heavy rain brought reports of flooding around the Chicago area on Monday.

As rain picked up through the day Monday, reports of flooding in Chicago's viaducts began coming in. Flooded viaducts have been reported at Ogden and Western, and Polk and Kedzie.

In southwest suburban Bridgeview, a lightning strike is believed to have downed a power pole in Roberts Park at 87th and Roberts Road. The strike cracked the pole and sent it crashing to the ground, while the power lines fell on top of a car, which ignited. Firefighters were able to put out the blaze. There were no reports of any injuries.

In Niles there were myriad flooded streets and parking lots. Cars had to be towed or pushed from the Walmart parking lot near Golf Mill Shopping Center.

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago asked people to conserve water to prevent issues with municipal sewers. The district asked residents to delay showers and baths, flush less frequently and wait to run the dishwasher or washing machine.

Residents can call 311 to report flooded viaducts, basements and more.

The weather has also impacted Chicago airports.

O'Hare has experienced 224 cancellations and 575 delays so far. Midway has experienced 62 cancellations and 199 delays.

The FAA tweeted, "The FAA is re-routing flights around storms on the East Coast this afternoon and evening. If you're flying to central Florida, Chicago and the Northeast, you may experience delays as we work to keep you safe."

There is also a Beach Hazard Statement scheduled to go into effect at 4 p.m. That's expected to go through Tuesday evening.