More than 845 flights canceled at Chicago airports as storms move in

More than 845 flights have been canceled at Chicago airports Thursday as thunderstorms move toward the city and an air-traffic control center recovers from a Friday fire.

At O’Hare, more than 545 flights were canceled as of 8:45 p.m. and delays were averaging 35 minutes, according to the city’s Department of Aviation.

At Midway, more than 300 flights were reported canceled Thursday night, and delays were averaging 30 minutes. Southwest Airlines canceled all incoming and outgoing flights from Midway Thursday.

Travelers are encouraged to check their flight status with their airline.

The cancellations and delays are due to the incoming storms and the ripple effects of the fire last week at an Aurora FAA facility, according to the aviation department.

Thunderstorms, including heavy rainfall and damaging winds, are expected to move into the area Thursday evening, according to the National Weather Service.

Some areas may see more than inch of rain by Friday morning, and high winds and hail are also possible, according to the weather service.