Chicago, Illinois – Thunderstorms are expected to sweep into the Chicago area by late Friday afternoon, followed by hazy skies from Canadian wildfire smoke lingering through the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service Chicago, gusty showers and scattered storms may develop Friday between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., with rain likely tapering off by midnight. Highs will reach the upper 70s to low 80s across much of northern Illinois, with a drop into the 50s overnight.
In addition to the storms, a plume of wildfire smoke drifting south from Canada is expected to lower air quality across the region Friday through Sunday. Haze will be most noticeable Saturday and Sunday, particularly near the Lake Michigan shoreline where highs stay in the 60s.
The combination of rain and smoke could impact outdoor plans and visibility. Residents with respiratory conditions should limit time outside and consider using air purifiers indoors. Drivers are urged to use headlights during hazy periods and slow down on wet roads.
Conditions should gradually improve late Sunday as winds shift. More updates are expected as the smoke pattern evolves and storm timing becomes clearer.
