Chicago, Illinois – Sunny skies in Chicago may lull Memorial Day travelers into a false sense of calm, but rain and storms are just behind it. By Tuesday night, a 70% chance of rain, possibly with thunderstorms, could make for a soggy and slick evening commute across the metro.
According to the National Weather Service, Monday will stay mostly sunny with a high near 59°F, offering a cool but pleasant holiday. Clouds return Monday night with increasing winds from the north. Rain is expected to begin by late Tuesday morning, with heavier rainfall likely after sunset. Travelers on I-55, I-90, and Lake Shore Drive should prepare for reduced visibility and wet pavement.
The biggest weather shift comes Tuesday night into early Wednesday, when thunderstorms may develop, especially across northern Cook and DuPage counties. Overnight lows will dip to 54°F, and standing water could impact low-lying areas.
By Wednesday, a slight chance of rain remains as skies begin to clear. Highs will rebound to the mid-60s by afternoon. Drier and warmer weather returns Thursday and Friday, with highs reaching 68°F and 76°F, respectively—marking a return to early summer conditions.
Prepare now by charging devices, checking travel routes, and rescheduling outdoor plans through Tuesday night. More updates will follow if additional watches or warnings are issued.
5-Day Extended Forecast:
- Monday (Memorial Day): Mostly sunny, high 59°F
- Tuesday: Rain likely by afternoon, high 60°F
- Wednesday: Chance rain early, then clearing, high 65°F
- Thursday: Partly sunny, high 68°F
- Friday: Mostly sunny, early summer warmth returns, high 76°F
