Chicago, Ill. – Darkening skies, thick summer humidity and the threat of explosive thunderstorms are setting the stage for a volatile weather day across northern Illinois. Drivers could encounter rapidly changing conditions this afternoon as storms capable of producing damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph, large hail and torrential rainfall develop. The same air mass is also pushing dangerous heat index values between 100 and 110 degrees, creating a dual weather threat before cooler air arrives later in the week.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, an Enhanced Risk (Level 3 of 5) for severe thunderstorms covers much of the Chicago metro and surrounding counties. Forecasters say storms that develop this afternoon into early evening may produce destructive wind damage, hail up to golf ball size, isolated tornadoes and localized flooding. A Heat Advisory remains in effect until 9 p.m., while a Beach Hazards Statement begins late today and continues into Wednesday morning for Lake Michigan beaches.
Travel could become difficult on I-90, I-94, I-55, I-80 and the Tri-State Tollway if stronger storms develop during the afternoon commute. Visibility may drop quickly in heavy rain, while isolated flooding could form on low-lying roads. If thunder roars, move indoors immediately and delay non-essential travel until storms pass.
Beachgoers should also avoid entering Lake Michigan. Large waves between 5 and 9 feet and dangerous currents are expected along portions of the Illinois and northwest Indiana shoreline. Swimming conditions may become life-threatening, even for experienced swimmers.
By Tuesday, noticeably cooler and breezy weather arrives with highs only in the mid-70s. Sunshine returns Wednesday before another chance of showers and thunderstorms develops later in the week. Looking farther ahead into the 6-to-10-day period, temperatures are expected to trend above normal, signaling another stretch of summer warmth after this brief cooldown.
Five-Day Forecast for Chicago, Illinois
- Today: High near 89°F. Showers and thunderstorms likely, especially this afternoon. Some storms may produce heavy rain, damaging winds and large hail.
- Tuesday: Partly sunny and breezy. High near 75°F.
- Wednesday: Sunny. High near 77°F.
- Thursday: Sunny. High near 82°F.
- Friday: Chance of showers and thunderstorms. High near 82°F.
