Chicago, Illinois – Haziness from wildfire smoke continues to blanket Chicago, keeping air quality low and visibility reduced as summer heat ramps up. Residents will wake up to smoky skies Wednesday and should expect the next notable shift Thursday night, when scattered thunderstorms could break the muggy streak and briefly clear the haze.
According to the National Weather Service, smoke will linger through at least Wednesday morning with only gradual improvement by midweek. Areas east of the city may see the thickest smoke, especially in the early hours. Highs will rise into the upper 80s Thursday with a slight 20% chance for evening showers and thunderstorms, followed by a drier, sunnier Friday. The rest of the week remains hot, with Saturday’s highs pushing into the 90s.
Drivers, especially those with respiratory conditions, are urged to limit outdoor activity until conditions improve. Visibility could drop in smoky areas and relief is not expected until after Thursday’s rain chances.
Stay tuned for further advisories as another round of thunderstorms may develop early next week.
Five Day Forecast for Chicago, IL:
Wednesday: Areas of smoke, mostly sunny, high 81°F
Thursday: Mostly sunny, high 87°F, slight chance evening storms
Friday: Mostly sunny, high 91°F
Saturday: Sunny, high 93°F
Sunday: Mostly sunny, slight thunderstorm chance late, high 89°F
