Chicago, Illinois – Illinois will get a short break from heat and humidity Tuesday and Wednesday before oppressive conditions return just in time for the July 4th holiday weekend, with scattered storms and peak heat indices soaring past 100°F.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, Tuesday and Wednesday will be less humid with highs in the mid-80s, especially near Lake Michigan. However, by Thursday, humidity will surge again, and a 20% chance of storms returns. By Friday and Saturday, highs will climb to 90–95°F with heat indices potentially reaching 105°F in some inland areas.
Peak heat is expected Friday afternoon, threatening outdoor plans and increasing the risk of heat-related illness. The Illinois Department of Public Health urges residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor activity during peak hours, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Fireworks events could face brief interruptions due to scattered storms both Friday and Saturday.
Storm chances remain low through midweek but increase heading into the weekend. Drivers across Cook, DuPage, and Will counties should stay alert for sudden downpours and reduced visibility on I-80 and I-55 corridors.
Heat advisories may be issued later this week as conditions intensify.
🔎 Five-Day Forecast (Chicago Metro):
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, less humid. High 82–86°F (cooler near lake). Low 63–71°F
- Wednesday: Partly cloudy, mild. High 85–89°F. Low 65–71°F
- Thursday: Partly sunny, 20% storm chance. High 88–91°F. Low 67–73°F
- Friday (July 4th): 20% chance of PM storms. High 90–95°F, heat index up to 100°. Low 72–79°F
- Saturday: Scattered storms. High 90–95°F, heat index up to 105°. Low 72–79°F
