Chicago, Illinois – Another stretch of dry and mild weather ends Tuesday as a strong cold front pushes into northern Illinois Wednesday, bringing widespread showers, isolated thunderstorms, and much cooler air. Afternoon rain is most likely in the Chicago metro and north toward the Wisconsin border.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, the most active period arrives Wednesday afternoon into the evening, with a 20 to 60 percent chance of measurable rainfall north of Interstate 80. Along with showers, forecasters warn of a high swim risk at Lake Michigan beaches Thursday as strong northerly winds churn up dangerous waves and currents.
High temperatures that hovered in the upper 70s early this week will plunge into the 60s by Thursday and linger through the weekend. Overnight lows could dip into the 40s across outlying suburbs, with city readings holding in the low 50s. Morning commuters Friday may face lingering drizzle before skies begin to clear.
Residents are urged to avoid swimming in Lake Michigan later this week and to prepare for breezy, cooler conditions that may affect outdoor events through Saturday. Additional advisories may be issued as showers develop Wednesday.
Five Day Forecast for Chicago, Illinois
- Tuesday: Partly cloudy, highs 77–83, lows 54–63.
- Wednesday: Afternoon showers and storms, highs 71–82, lows 41–52.
- Thursday: High swim risk on Lake Michigan, highs 63–68, lows 49–55.
- Friday: Breezy with lingering morning showers, highs 63–71, lows 43–52.
- Saturday: Partly sunny and cool, highs 64–70, lows 42–53.
