CHICAGO, Ill. — After a mild and mostly sunny stretch, Chicago and much of northern Illinois are gearing up for a wet weekend ahead. Thursday brings another warm, comfortable day across the region before a line of showers and possible thunderstorms arrives by late Friday and lingers into Saturday.
The National Weather Service in Romeoville reports that highs will soar to the mid-80s Thursday before cooler air and moisture push in from the west. Drivers along I-90, I-55, and I-294 should prepare for slick conditions and reduced visibility Saturday as widespread showers develop. Gusty south winds up to 25 mph could accompany the rain, especially along the lakefront and open roadways.
Friday starts dry but cloudy, with highs in the low 70s before the first bands of rain roll in during the evening. Saturday looks like the wettest day of the week, with widespread showers and isolated thunderstorms possible from mid-morning through evening. Temperatures will fall into the lower 60s by afternoon, marking the start of a noticeable fall cooldown.
By Sunday, lingering rain exits early, leaving breezy and cooler conditions with highs only near 58°F. Early next week looks calmer, with sunshine returning Monday and Tuesday as highs climb back into the mid-60s — perfect for late-October pumpkin patch trips and fall leaf viewing.
Residents are urged to stay weather-aware, secure outdoor items before Saturday’s gusts, and allow extra time for weekend travel across the Chicago metro.
Five-Day Forecast for Chicago, IL:
Thu: 86/57 – Mostly sunny; warm breeze.
Fri: 74/64 – Clouds increase; late showers.
Sat: 72/51 – Showers, breezy; 80% chance.
Sun: 58/48 – Morning rain, cooler winds.
Mon: 65/50 – Sunny; mild and dry.
