Chicago, Illinois – Midweek storms will bring wet roads and possible lightning delays tonight, but by Thursday, sunshine will make a quick return. Commuters along I-55 and Lake Shore Drive could face slick pavement through Wednesday evening before conditions improve overnight.
According to the National Weather Service, scattered thunderstorms will continue until about 8 p.m., with gusts reaching 25 mph in some areas. Rainfall totals will range from a quarter inch to higher amounts in isolated storms. Overnight lows will drop to the lower 60s as northwest winds push drier air into the region.
By Thursday, Chicagoans can expect clear skies and a high near 68 degrees, marking the start of a cooler, fall-like stretch. Winds will ease to 10–15 mph, making conditions much safer for both driving and outdoor plans. Thursday night will stay partly cloudy with lows dipping into the upper 50s.
The shift means Friday night football games across Cook County and neighboring suburbs will enjoy mostly sunny skies and comfortable highs near 67. Travelers heading north toward Evanston or west toward Oak Brook should also see smooth conditions with no storm disruptions.
Looking ahead, the weekend stays dry with highs in the upper 60s to lower 70s, ideal for outdoor festivals, tailgates, and lakefront activities.
Warnings tied to storms expire late tonight, but residents should remain cautious of wet roads until the morning commute.
Five-Day Forecast for Chicago, Illinois
- Thursday: Sunny, high near 68, low around 57.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 67, low around 51.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 68, low around 52.
- Sunday: Sunny, high near 67, low around 54.
- Monday: Sunny, high near 67, low around 59
