Chicago, IL – A dangerous spring weather setup is unfolding across the region today as record-challenging warmth rapidly gives way to a Level 3 out of 5 severe thunderstorm risk. While the morning started with temperatures climbing toward an unseasonable 71°F, residents should prepare for a volatile afternoon and a biting cold snap that will send thermometers plunging nearly 40 degrees by tomorrow morning.
According to the National Weather Service, a potent cold front will trigger severe thunderstorms after 4 p.m. today. These storms carry a significant risk of producing “gorilla hail” larger than 2 inches in diameter and damaging wind gusts exceeding 60 mph. Forecasters are also monitoring a window for tornado development, specifically for areas near and south of a line from Streator, Illinois, to Rensselaer, Indiana.
The threat extends across the I-80 corridor and down I-57, where heavy downpours may lead to localized flooding. As the sun sets, the story shifts from storms to a dramatic freeze. Temperatures are expected to crash to a low of 32°F tonight. This creates a high risk for flash freezing on roadways as standing water from afternoon storms turns to black ice. Drivers should exercise extreme caution on overpasses and bridges during the late-night hours.
Conditions will remain breezy into Friday with gusts reaching 30 mph, making the high of 37°F feel significantly colder. Looking ahead, the weekend offers a brief recovery before another warm-up begins early next week. Stay weather aware today and ensure your mobile alerts are turned on for your specific county.
Five Day Forecast for Chicago, IL
- Thursday: High 71°F. Severe thunderstorms likely after 4 p.m. Large hail and damaging winds possible.
- Friday: High 37°F. Partly sunny and breezy. Much colder with gusts to 30 mph.
- Saturday: High 48°F. Sunny skies with lighter winds.
- Sunday: High 59°F. Mostly sunny and pleasant.
- Monday: High 67°F. Mostly sunny. Warming trend continues.
