Chicago, Illinois – Severe thunderstorms are expected to strike the Chicago area between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Friday, bringing a heightened risk of damaging winds and hail capable of denting vehicles and downing tree limbs.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, a fast-moving line of storms will sweep east-southeast across northern Illinois late this morning into mid-afternoon. While storms may weaken slightly mid-morning, they are forecast to re-intensify as they approach the metro area. The primary threats include 40–50 mph wind gusts and isolated hail up to quarter size.
Residents in Aurora, Joliet, and surrounding suburbs should secure loose outdoor items and prepare for reduced visibility, power outages, and sudden downpours. Lightning and torrential rainfall may also impact travel during the lunch hour commute. Roadways like I-55 and I-90 could see brief flooding or debris from wind damage.
The NWS recommends staying weather-aware with multiple alert methods and avoiding unnecessary travel during peak storm hours. This system is moving quickly and will likely exit the region by late afternoon.
Warnings remain in effect through 4 p.m. for parts of northeastern Illinois. Updates will follow as conditions evolve.
📆 Five-Day Forecast for Chicago:
- Friday: Severe storms until 2 p.m., highs near 83°F, wind gusts up to 50 mph
- Saturday: Partly sunny, isolated showers, high 80°F
- Sunday: Mostly clear, cooler with highs around 77°F
- Monday: Sunny, high near 82°F
- Tuesday: Chance of afternoon storms, high 85°F
