Chicago, Illinois – Sizzling heat and sporadic storms could complicate holiday plans across Illinois as the state heads into a hot and storm-prone weekend.
According to the National Weather Service, a 20% chance of evening thunderstorms returns to Chicago by Thursday night, potentially bringing brief rain after 4 p.m. But skies will clear in time for a mostly sunny and dry Fourth of July, with highs near 92°F and mild southerly winds. Still, residents should stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities during peak sun hours.
By Saturday, a summer weather alert is in effect for Chicago and surrounding areas as temperatures surge to 96°F, marking the hottest day of the week. The heat won’t come alone — a slight thunderstorm chance creeps back in Saturday night, continuing into Sunday afternoon and Monday night, with another round of scattered showers likely Tuesday and Wednesday.
Expect higher humidity throughout the weekend, especially near the lakefront and along major roadways like I-55 and Lake Shore Drive, where traffic volume may spike for July 4th travel. Light winds won’t offer much relief. Make sure to check air conditioning units, avoid long outdoor exposure, and keep pets cool.
Most storms in the extended forecast are short-lived but may impact afternoon plans, especially Sunday and Tuesday. Rain chances remain low but persistent, meaning pop-up storms could catch some off guard.
⚠️ Warnings remain in effect for heat impacts Saturday; next NWS update expected Friday morning.
☀️ Five-Day Forecast: Chicago, IL (July 4–9)
- Friday, July 4 (Independence Day): Mostly sunny, high near 92°F, light south wind.
- Saturday: Sunny and hot, high near 96°F.
- Saturday Night: Partly cloudy, slight chance of thunderstorms, low near 77°F.
- Sunday: Chance of afternoon thunderstorms, high near 90°F.
- Monday Night: More storms possible after 8 p.m., low near 70°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny with storm chances late, high near 79°F.
- Wednesday: Chance of storms continues, high near 85°F.
