Chicago, Illinois – Northern Illinois residents should prepare for unsettled weather Friday night as showers and possible thunderstorms move through the region, bringing a brief but notable change before cooler, breezy conditions set in for the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, most of Thursday and Friday will stay dry with highs in the low to mid-80s, but the chance of storms increases late Friday evening, especially north of Interstate 80. Forecasters warn that localized downpours and lightning are possible, which could affect late-evening travel and outdoor events.
Areas near Lake Michigan will see slightly cooler temperatures Thursday due to lake breezes, but swimmers should be cautious as dangerous currents remain a concern along the shoreline tonight. By Saturday, scattered showers and storms may linger in the morning before skies gradually clear in the afternoon. Highs will settle in the upper 70s to low 80s.
Sunday looks drier and breezier with highs dipping into the low 70s, offering more comfortable conditions and lower humidity. The National Weather Service notes that overall, the pattern heading into next week favors cooler, sunnier weather with fewer storm chances.
Residents planning weekend travel should monitor updates, especially Friday night into Saturday morning when storms are most likely.
Five Day Forecast for Chicago, Illinois
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, cooler near Lake Michigan. High 78–82, low 57–66.
- Friday: Partly sunny, storms possible late north of I-80. High 81–84, low 62–68.
- Saturday: Showers and thunderstorms possible early, clearing late. High 79–82, low 53–61.
- Sunday: Breezy with sunshine. High 69–75, low 49–56.
- Monday: Sunny, cooler and less humid. Highs in the low 70s.
