Chicago, IL – Residents in the Chicago area should prepare for isolated showers and thunderstorms on and off throughout Friday and into the weekend. The National Weather Service in Chicago has forecasted that while storms may taper off briefly this afternoon, there remains a significant chance for scattered thunderstorms to redevelop by evening. These storms carry a level 2 out of 5 severe weather threat, with the possibility of hail up to 1 inch in diameter and wind gusts reaching 60 mph. The most likely time for these storms to occur is between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m., though their coverage may be inconsistent.
As Friday unfolds, the morning is expected to bring sunshine, but clouds will quickly build, leading to the development of more isolated showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon and evening. The storm threat level drops to a 1 out of 5 for Friday’s events, with storms being less intense but still possible between 2 p.m. and 10 p.m.
Looking ahead to the weekend, the Chicago area will see a mix of sun and clouds, with scattered showers and thunderstorms continuing to pop up at times. Saturday afternoon could bring more isolated showers, though they are not expected to be widespread. By Sunday, the weather should calm down, with mostly dry conditions anticipated and slightly cooler temperatures, particularly near Lake Michigan.
In addition to the thunderstorms, dangerous swimming conditions are forecasted for the Lake County shoreline through this evening. Waves are expected to build to 4 to 6 feet due to strong south-southeast winds, creating hazardous boating conditions and life-threatening currents. The National Weather Service advises avoiding water activities, obeying posted warnings, and steering clear of piers, breakwalls, and lakeshore trails.
