Chicago, IL – A pleasant Friday across northern Illinois will give way to increasing storm chances Saturday, with some thunderstorms potentially becoming severe by evening, particularly south of Interstate 80.
According to the National Weather Service Chicago office, dry and breezy conditions are expected across the region Friday, with afternoon temperatures reaching the upper 70s to lower 80s under mostly sunny skies.
The focus then shifts to Saturday, June 13, when a developing weather system is expected to bring thunderstorms into northern Illinois late in the day and continuing into Saturday night.
Forecasters say some of those storms could become strong to severe, especially for communities south of Interstate 80, including portions of Will, Kankakee, Grundy, LaSalle, Livingston and Iroquois counties.
Current projections show temperatures warming into the low-to-mid 80s Saturday afternoon before thunderstorms begin developing. The primary threats with any severe storms could include damaging wind gusts, hail and locally heavy rainfall, though specific impacts will depend on how storms evolve throughout the day.
Residents with outdoor plans, graduation parties, sporting events, festivals or other weekend activities should closely monitor forecast updates and have a way to receive weather warnings Saturday evening.
The National Weather Service noted that conditions will turn noticeably cooler following the weekend system. High temperatures are expected to fall into the lower 70s Sunday, with overnight lows dipping into the 50s.
Additional chances for showers and thunderstorms may return by Tuesday, but forecasters expect generally quieter weather to begin next week.
For now, weather officials recommend enjoying Friday’s comfortable conditions while preparing for potentially impactful weather later Saturday.
