CHICAGO, Illinois – Drivers heading into Patriot Day events Thursday will see calm skies and rising heat before storms threaten into the weekend. The National Weather Service warns of a shift Friday night, with thunderstorms possible that could slow traffic on I-90 and I-94 during late-night commutes. Residents are urged to monitor conditions and avoid unnecessary travel if storms develop.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, Thursday will stay sunny with highs around 75 and light east winds. Friday brings the warmest stretch of the week, topping out near 81, but conditions could deteriorate late at night as scattered thunderstorms form. Rain chances rise after 1 a.m. Saturday, and while widespread severe weather isn’t expected, any downpours could create ponding on highways and impact early morning travel.
Saturday will feel more like summer than fall, with highs soaring near 87 before cooler air moves in Sunday. Sunshine returns for much of the day, followed by a refreshing drop to the upper 70s into early next week. Those attending Patriot Day ceremonies Thursday should enjoy mild, dry conditions, but anyone planning weekend outdoor events should prepare a backup plan in case storms linger.
Power crews and first responders across Cook County remain on alert, as isolated outages are possible with gusty storms Friday night. Keep phones charged, limit time on the road after midnight, and check city alerts before traveling.
Warnings remain possible through Saturday morning. The National Weather Service will issue updated advisories if storm threats expand.
Five-Day Forecast for Chicago, Illinois
- Thursday: Sunny, high 75, low 63.
- Friday: Sunny, high 81, storm risk overnight. Low 68.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high 87, low 68.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 78, low 68.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, high 78, low 66.
