Chicago, Illinois – After a breezy and warm Tuesday with highs soaring into the upper 80s, northern Illinois residents should brace for thunderstorms tonight and a major temperature drop by Wednesday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, southwest winds may gust over 30 mph Tuesday afternoon, especially along the I-39 corridor. Isolated showers are possible before widespread thunderstorms move in late this evening across Chicago, Rockford, and northwest Indiana.
Rain will continue overnight into Wednesday, gradually shifting southward. The cold front behind the storms will bring much cooler air, especially north of I-80. Highs in the Chicago area could struggle to reach the 60s Wednesday, with lakeside locations staying even cooler in the 50s. A few thunderstorms may linger south of I-80 through the afternoon.
Travelers should monitor for reduced visibility and slick roads during the evening commute. Residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor items and charge devices in case of brief power outages.
Showers taper off south of I-80 by Wednesday night, but cooler temperatures stick around through Friday. Another chance for rain returns Friday morning.
Five Day Bullet Forecast:
- Tuesday: Windy, isolated PM shower. High 82–88°F
- Wednesday: Showers, T-storms early, much cooler. High 60–69°F
- Thursday: Partly sunny, dry. High 72–79°F (60s lakeside)
- Friday: Chance of showers, mainly south. High 70–76°F
- Saturday: Mostly sunny and seasonal. Highs in the mid 70s
