Chicago, Illinois – Hot and humid weather returns to Illinois Tuesday, with scattered thunderstorms expected to fire up in the afternoon, especially in areas south of I-80.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, temperatures will climb into the upper 80s and low 90s Tuesday afternoon, with dew points rising sharply across central and southern counties. A 20–30% chance of pop-up storms exists, particularly from Bloomington to Kankakee, as unstable air settles over the region.
While Chicago and the northern suburbs will remain mostly dry, residents in Champaign, Decatur, and Peoria should prepare for brief downpours, gusty winds, and lightning between 2 and 7 p.m. These storms are not expected to be severe but could disrupt outdoor plans or cause minor flooding in poor-drainage areas.
Drivers are advised to slow down during sudden heavy showers and remain alert to wet roads. Outdoor workers should hydrate frequently and take breaks in shaded areas as heat index values push toward the mid-90s.
The storm threat increases across the entire region by Wednesday, with higher chances of widespread thunderstorms and heavy rain.
🔎 Five Day Forecast for Northern and Central Illinois
- Tuesday: Humid with afternoon storms south of I-80 | High 84–91°F / Low 67–74°F
- Wednesday: Stormy and humid, 50–60% rain chance | High 84–91°F / Low 62–71°F
- Thursday: Partly cloudy with scattered PM storms | High 77–84°F / Low 56–66°F
- Friday: Drier and cooler, mostly sunny | High 76–82°F / Low 58–64°F
- Saturday: Mild and pleasant with light breeze | High 78–85°F / Low 60–67°F
