CHICAGO – Showers and scattered storms are moving across northern Illinois today as a strong cold front pushes into the region, bringing a sharp drop in temperatures and a taste of fall heading into the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, widespread rain will continue into tonight with the heaviest showers and a few thunderstorms expected near sunset. High swim risks remain in effect for Lake Michigan beaches in Cook and Lake Counties through Thursday, with dangerous rip currents possible.
By Thursday night, another round of showers is likely north of Interstate 80 before breezy, cooler air takes hold Friday. Highs will dip into the low 60s to near 70, well below early September norms, with some of the coolest readings along the lakeshore.
Drivers should use caution this evening as heavy downpours could reduce visibility during the evening commute. Beachgoers are advised to stay out of the water due to rip currents and large waves through late week.
Cooler-than-average conditions will persist through Sunday, with dry skies expected for most of the weekend. Additional weather alerts remain possible if showers redevelop later this week.
Five Day Forecast for Chicago, IL
- Wednesday: Showers and storms, highs 69–80, evening lows near 55.
- Thursday: Partial sun, chance of showers at night, highs 64–71, lows 50–57.
- Friday: Breezy with scattered showers, highs 63–71, lows 42–52.
- Saturday: Mostly cloudy and cool, highs 64–72, lows 42–53.
- Sunday: Partly sunny, highs 66–73, lows 43–54.
