Chicago, IL – A shift toward warmer, stormier conditions is expected across Illinois through the weekend, with the most severe impacts likely Friday night and Sunday, especially near major corridors including I-88, I-80, and east of I-55.
According to the National Weather Service Chicago, storm chances will rise steadily beginning Thursday evening, with Friday bringing the highest likelihood of severe thunderstorms, particularly in areas east of I-55. Breezy conditions are forecast both Thursday and Friday, with wind gusts contributing to rapidly changing travel conditions.
By Saturday, showers will persist mainly south of I-80, with cooler highs dipping into the upper 40s. Sunday brings another round of storms, with rain chances peaking at 60 to 70 percent across the region, and temperatures hovering in the low 60s. Overnight lows will range from the low 40s to mid-50s throughout the period.
Residents are urged to monitor local alerts and avoid travel during peak storm activity, especially Friday night. Secure outdoor items, check sump pumps, and prepare for potential power outages.
This weather pattern marks a notable departure from typical mid-April conditions in Illinois, where highs often remain in the upper 50s with lower precipitation rates.
