Chicago, Illinois – Wildfire smoke is blanketing much of northern Illinois again Tuesday, dimming skies and reducing air quality as temperatures climb into the low to mid-80s across the region, with only upper 70s expected near the Lake Michigan shoreline.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, the hazy conditions are expected to linger through the day, especially along and south of a Pontiac, IL to Rensselaer, IN line, where isolated showers and storms could pop up during the afternoon. Areas along I-80 and to the south face a 20% chance of precipitation.
The rest of the week turns increasingly hot and humid. Highs in the upper 80s to near 90°F are likely Wednesday through Saturday, with Friday marking the peak heat risk as heat indices push into the 95–100°F range. Downtown Chicago may see overnight lows stay in the mid-70s, limiting nighttime relief.
Residents are urged to limit prolonged outdoor exposure, especially in smoky conditions or during peak afternoon heat. Sensitive groups should monitor air quality updates.
Conditions remain dry for most locations, but storm chances could increase again by late Saturday. Additional advisories may be issued as heat builds across the state.
Five Day Forecast for Chicago, IL:
- Tuesday: Hazy, high 80–84°F; low 62–66°F
- Wednesday: Partly sunny, high 81–87°F; low 64–67°F
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high 86–90°F; low 66–70°F
- Friday: Hot, heat index 95–100°F, high 87–92°F; low 68–74°F
- Saturday: Hot and humid, chance of evening storms, high 87–92°F; low 70–74°F
