Chicago, Illinois – Storms are expected to return to Chicago by mid-afternoon Wednesday, bringing scattered downpours and thunder that could snarl commutes on I-55, Lake Shore Drive, and local arterial roads. Afternoon highs will reach 78°F before dropping into the upper 60s overnight.
According to the National Weather Service, isolated showers and thunderstorms may develop after 1 p.m. Wednesday, with the most active window between 3 and 6 p.m. Winds will shift from the west to the north by evening, signaling a brief cooldown before another hot weekend. Rain chances drop to 20% by nightfall, with skies clearing out into early Thursday.
While flooding isn’t expected, ponding on roads and reduced visibility during heavier downpours could affect travel and outdoor activities. Residents are advised to monitor alerts and delay outdoor plans until after sunset if possible.
Thursday and Friday bring a return to sun and summer heat, with highs climbing into the upper 80s by the weekend. A 30% chance of afternoon storms is possible Friday, particularly near Lake Michigan and in Cook County.
By Saturday and Sunday, the pattern remains unsettled, with daily storm chances continuing — but mostly confined to late afternoon hours. Expect muggy conditions and overnight lows near 70°F throughout the weekend.
🌤️ 5-Day Weather Outlook for Chicago (July 9–14):
- Wednesday: Scattered PM storms; high 78°F
- Thursday: Sunny and dry; high 81°F
- Friday: Chance of PM storms; high 88°F
- Saturday: Partly sunny, storm risk late; high 87°F
- Sunday: Dry start, possible storms PM; high 85°F
- Monday: Sunny, dry, and hot; high 88°F
