Chicago, IL – A surge of summer-like heat and unstable conditions is expected to bring potentially severe storms and heightened fire danger to northern Illinois beginning Thursday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service.
According to NWS Chicago, isolated to scattered thunderstorms may form between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. Thursday, with a 30 to 40 percent chance of development. If storms do occur, they could become severe, with threats including destructive hail, damaging winds, and even tornadoes. The highest risk zone includes the Chicago metropolitan area and stretches into parts of northeast Illinois and southeast Wisconsin.
Forecasters caution that storm development remains uncertain. Only a few storms may form, but any that do could quickly intensify. No storm activity is also considered a plausible outcome. Residents are encouraged to remain alert and monitor updates throughout the day Thursday.
Meanwhile, a cold front arriving late Thursday is expected to trigger breezy conditions, which will contribute to an elevated fire danger on Friday. The NWS warns that strong winds, low humidity, and high temperatures could lead to rapid fire spread, especially for grass or brush fires. This fire risk will be most significant in areas along and west of Interstate 39 from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday and area-wide on Friday.
Additional isolated storms are possible again Friday afternoon, particularly south of Interstate 80. Should storms materialize, the primary threat will be damaging winds.
Residents are advised to reconsider any outdoor burning and to stay weather-aware through the end of the week.
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