Chicago, Illinois – Waves up to 5 feet and thunderstorms with dangerous winds could disrupt Chicago’s Monday plans as summer heat returns fast.
According to the National Weather Service, a Beach Hazards Statement remains in effect for Lake and Cook Counties from 4 a.m. CDT Monday, July 21, through 9 a.m., warning swimmers to avoid the lakefront due to strong currents and high wave action. At the same time, an elevated thunderstorm and flooding risk will develop Monday afternoon, especially near and south of I-80.
Expect partly sunny skies early Monday with highs near 79°F, followed by a chance of storms and gusts up to 60 mph by late evening. Monday night stays mild around 69°F, but building humidity sets the stage for an intense warmup by midweek. Tuesday will climb to 84°F, and Wednesday could top out at a sweltering 96°F in the city.
If you’re headed near Lake Shore Drive or planning lakefront activities, stay away from jetties, piers, and breakwalls. Swimming could be life-threatening. Use caution on roadways near water, and avoid flooded underpasses during Monday’s storms.
Looking ahead, the heat lingers:
🔎 Five-Day Weather Forecast for Chicago, IL
- Monday, July 21: Mostly sunny, high near 79°F. Thunderstorms possible late. Low around 69°F.
- Tuesday, July 22: Sunny and warmer, high 84°F. Mostly clear overnight, low 74°F.
- Wednesday, July 23: Hot, high near 96°F. Mostly clear at night, low 80°F.
- Thursday, July 24: Chance of storms. High near 97°F, low 78°F.
- Friday, July 25: More storms possible. High 90°F, low around 74°F.
- Saturday, July 26 (Preview): Showers and storms continue, high near 90°F.
⚠️ Stay weather aware as the hot, stormy pattern continues into next weekend. Additional heat and flood alerts may be issued.
