Chicago, IL – Residents across northern Illinois should prepare for periodic showers and thunderstorms stretching from Friday afternoon into early next week, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Chicago.
Forecasters said Friday, September 19, will bring highs in the upper 80s along the I-39 corridor, with late-day storm chances increasing. The unsettled pattern will linger through the weekend, with temperatures settling into the upper 70s.
According to NWS, Saturday carries a 40–60% chance of showers and storms, particularly in the afternoon, while Sunday holds a 30–50% risk. The active weather continues Monday with another 40–60% chance of rain and thunder, before tapering to 20–40% on Tuesday. Overnight lows will dip into the low-to-mid 60s.
Meteorologists emphasized that while multiple rounds of storms are possible, the weekend will not be a complete washout. “There will be breaks in the rain,” NWS noted, though localized downpours and thunder could impact outdoor events and travel.
The unsettled weather comes as seasonal transitions bring stronger storm systems across the Midwest. Drivers are urged to allow extra time during evening commutes and weekend travel, and residents planning outdoor activities should monitor updated forecasts.
