Chicago, Illinois – Scattered thunderstorms are expected to intensify across northern Illinois this afternoon, with strong winds and hail posing risks to drivers and outdoor plans, especially north of I-80.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, the strongest storms may develop between 1 and 6 p.m. Monday, bringing gusts up to 60 mph and hail as large as one inch. Areas east of the Fox Valley—including Waukegan, Elgin, and parts of Chicago—face the highest coverage of severe conditions.
Roadways like I-90, I-294, and US-20 may see slick spots and reduced visibility during peak commute hours. Lightning, localized downpours, and wind damage to trees or property remain possible. Residents are urged to delay outdoor activities, secure loose items, and monitor alerts from emergency services.
This pattern marks the latest in a string of early summer disturbances, though drier and warmer weather is expected to return midweek. Tuesday and Wednesday will bring highs in the upper 70s to upper 80s under mostly sunny skies before rain chances increase again Thursday into Friday.
Storms should diminish by early evening, but advisories remain possible into tonight depending on storm development.
🌤 Five-Day Forecast (Chicago Metro):
- Monday: Breezy, scattered PM storms (mainly N of I-80). High: 67–77°F | Low: 50–57°F
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, warm. High: 74–80°F | Low: 60–64°F
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, hot. Storm chance north of I-80 late. High: 85–89°F | Low: 61–66°F
- Thursday: Scattered showers & storms. Cooler near the lake. High: 79–87°F | Low: 56–65°F
- Friday: Spotty rain, partly cloudy. High: 74–83°F | Low: 58–66°F
