Chicago, Ill. – Strong to severe thunderstorms could disrupt travel across northern Illinois and northwest Indiana tonight before a cooler and quieter weather pattern settles into the region for the middle of the week. The greatest concern is damaging wind gusts as storms move through during the evening and overnight hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, scattered strong to severe thunderstorms are expected as a cold front pushes across the region tonight. Forecasters say the storms may persist into the overnight hours before gradually exiting, with the threat diminishing by Tuesday morning.
Warm and humid conditions will continue Tuesday, with afternoon highs reaching 82 to 87 degrees before a secondary chance for light showers develops later in the day. Behind the front, a much more comfortable air mass arrives Wednesday, bringing highs in the 73 to 77 degree range along with lower humidity and mostly sunny skies.
Communities including Chicago, Rockford, Joliet, Aurora, Naperville, Waukegan and northwest Indiana can expect improving conditions by midweek. Lake Michigan will remain a concern, however, as an increased swim risk is forecast on both Tuesday and Wednesday due to hazardous waves and currents. Beachgoers should check local conditions before entering the water.
Dry weather is expected to dominate Thursday and Friday with abundant sunshine. Afternoon highs should range from 76 to 80 degrees Thursday and 78 to 81 degrees Friday, providing a welcome break from the recent stretch of heat and humidity.
Five-Day Forecast for Chicago, Illinois
- Tonight: Scattered strong to severe thunderstorms. Low 69–73°.
- Tuesday: Partly sunny with a slight chance of afternoon showers. High 82–87°, low 56–62°.
- Wednesday: Sunny and cooler. High 73–77°, low 52–60°.
- Thursday: Sunny and pleasant. High 76–80°, low 56–62°.
- Friday: Mostly sunny. High 78–81°, low 58–64°.
