Chicago, Illinois – Dangerous heat and fast-developing storms could slam Chicago Tuesday afternoon, just as thousands head home on I-290 and I-55. With temperatures soaring near 96°F and heat indices topping 105°, the risk of heat exhaustion and infrastructure strain remains high.
According to the National Weather Service, an Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect through midnight Tuesday. By late afternoon, scattered thunderstorms could develop between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., bringing gusts up to 40 mph and potential flooding in low-lying areas. Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor activities during peak heat and prepare for possible power outages Tuesday evening.
Cooling centers are open across Cook County, and Chicago’s 311 line remains active for wellness checks and emergency heat resources. Overnight lows in the upper 70s will offer little relief, and another round of storms is likely Wednesday.
Breezy southwest winds could worsen conditions near Lake Shore Drive and downtown areas. Commuters should monitor alerts for possible delays along I-94, I-90, and I-294, especially during the Tuesday evening rush.
While the worst heat backs off slightly after Tuesday, the remainder of the week brings a mix of rain chances and milder highs.
🔥 5-DAY CHICAGO FORECAST (June 24–28)
- Tuesday (June 24): High 96°F | Chance of afternoon storms, heat index 105°, breezy
- Wednesday: High 75°F | 50% chance of storms, partly sunny, cooler air arrives
- Thursday: High 92°F | Mostly sunny, slight storm risk returns
- Friday: High 83°F | Scattered thunderstorms, humid
- Saturday: High 81°F | Partly cloudy, storm chances linger late
