Storm system interrupts radio signals and causes power outages

A powerful thunderstorm storm system moved across the Arrowhead region on Friday evening, causing power outages, interruptions to WTIP’s radio signal, and cancellations of the Friday’s Cook County Vikings Football Game.

On Friday at approximately 6 p.m., local authorities began receiving reports of lightning strikes and then shortly afterwards, reports of isolated power outages throughout Cook County.

Shortly after 7 p.m., WTIP experienced radio signal issues. WTIP is working to repairs at this time. Streaming of WTIP is still available through the website and WTIP app.

The cause of the incident is unknown at this time. WTIP contacted the Cook County Sheriff’s Office at 8 p.m., to ask about interruptions to communications or radio transmission, and the sheriff’s office said it had not experienced any interruptions.

Sept. 11 was the first home game of the Cook County Vikings football team and ultimately was delayed due to the lightning strikes. The score of the game before it was delayed was Cook County Vikings leading 28-0.

Kalli Hawkins September 11, 2026