Chicago, Illinois – Smoke will hang over much of Illinois on Monday, June 2, as summerlike heat builds across the region, with highs climbing to 87°F in the Chicago metro area and even warmer inland. Air quality will remain a concern for millions as hazy skies linger into the night.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, smoke from distant wildfires will continue to limit visibility and filter sunlight through Monday evening. Despite the haze, temperatures will soar—especially across the suburbs and interior Illinois—while lakefront neighborhoods stay cooler due to onshore winds.
Conditions stay dry through Monday night, but changes arrive quickly on Tuesday. Scattered thunderstorms are likely to develop late Tuesday afternoon into the overnight hours, particularly along and west of the I-39 corridor. These storms may produce gusty winds, lightning, and locally heavy rain.
Sensitive groups should avoid prolonged outdoor activity on Monday, as smoke particulates remain elevated. Residents are encouraged to run air purifiers indoors and check airnow.gov for real-time air quality updates. Keep windows closed and limit exercise outdoors.
June 2 marks a pivotal shift in Illinois’ early summer weather, with stormier, cooler conditions expected to follow by midweek.
Five-Day Forecast for Chicago:
- Today (Sunday): Smoky skies, highs 70–78°F (60s lakeside), lows 48–54°F
- Monday (June 2): Hazy sun, smoke, highs 82–87°F, lows 60–66°F
- Tuesday: Breezy, highs 84–89°F, storms developing late, lows 61–70°F
- Wednesday: Morning storms possible, mainly south of I-80, highs 73–83°F, lows 55–62°F
- Thursday: Spotty rain SE of I-55, highs 70–75°F (cooler at lake), lows 53–60°F
