Chicago, Illinois – A dangerous mix of sweltering heat and strong thunderstorms is expected to hit the Chicago area Sunday, capping off a week of rising humidity and wildfire haze. Heat indices could spike to 100°F by late afternoon, with storms developing as the evening progresses.
According to the National Weather Service, conditions will remain hazy through Thursday due to lingering wildfire smoke, but visibility should improve as winds shift more southerly. Temperatures will steadily climb heading into the weekend, with daytime highs between 88°F and 94°F Friday through Saturday and oppressive humidity driving peak heat index values into the upper 90s.
The Chicago metro could see isolated showers north of I-80 Thursday night, but the main weather impact comes Sunday when high instability could lead to severe thunderstorms. The strongest storms may bring lightning, gusty winds, and localized downpours.
Residents should limit outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and monitor forecasts—especially if planning travel or outdoor events Sunday evening. Power outages or localized flooding can’t be ruled out.
Hot, humid air remains in place through early next week, with more rain chances likely into Monday.
Five Day Forecast for Chicago, IL:
- Wednesday: Patchy AM fog, hazy skies. High 84–87°F.
- Thursday: Partly sunny, isolated showers north. High 85–90°F.
- Friday: Sunny and hot. High 88–92°F.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, peak heat indices near 100°F. High 89–94°F.
- Sunday: Hot and humid, scattered PM thunderstorms. High 86–92°F.
