Chicago, IL – Strong winds will sweep across northern Illinois Friday, bringing gusts up to 45 mph in Chicago and surrounding areas. Residents in Cook and DuPage counties should secure outdoor items and prepare for possible power outages as wind speeds increase by mid-morning.
According to the National Weather Service, a wind advisory remains in effect from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday. Westerly winds between 20 and 25 mph, with gusts reaching 45 mph, are expected to create hazardous conditions, especially for high-profile vehicles on major roads, including I-90, I-294, and I-55. Strong winds could knock down tree limbs and disrupt travel.
By Friday night, winds will shift northwest and weaken as temperatures drop to 23°F, leading into a much colder Saturday. Saturday’s high will only reach 31°F, with sunny but blustery conditions persisting throughout the day. Overnight, temperatures will fall to 21°F, with calmer winds.
Sunday brings a brief warm-up with highs near 37°F under sunny skies. However, another system moves in Monday, bringing a chance of rain and snow before 9 a.m., transitioning to rain as temperatures rise to 41°F. Windy conditions will return early next week, with rain likely through Wednesday.
Residents should take caution while driving Friday and prepare for rapidly changing conditions through the weekend. Stay updated with the latest forecasts and secure loose outdoor objects before high winds arrive.
