CHICAGO, Ill. – A blustery and wet weekend is setting up across northern Illinois as a vigorous fall storm system pushes through. Strong south winds and rounds of heavy rain could make travel difficult, especially along I-55 and I-80 through Sunday morning. Motorists should watch for ponding on roads, gusty crosswinds, and quickly changing conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago/Romeoville, thunderstorms will increase through Saturday afternoon and persist into Sunday morning. Some storms may pack wind gusts up to 60 mph, particularly west and south of the city. The agency notes a Level 1 of 5 risk for damaging winds, with localized power outages possible in exposed areas.
Rain will taper late Sunday as cooler, drier air sweeps in from the northwest. Monday brings a sharp contrast — sunshine and a brisk breeze will replace the gray skies, marking the start of a quieter, more typical mid-October stretch. Temperatures will dip into the 40s overnight with highs in the mid-60s early in the week.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor decorations, including Halloween displays and lightweight patio furniture, before the wind picks up. Gardeners should check for drainage around pumpkin patches or leaf-viewing areas, as soggy ground could linger through early Monday.
By midweek, the fall chill settles in fully, offering crisp days ideal for outdoor events and early Halloween prep before another potential rain chance returns late Thursday.
Five-Day Forecast for Chicago, IL:
Sat: 74/64 – Showers, gusty winds near 25 mph; brief thunder possible.
Sun: 68/46 – Breezy with rain tapering; winds 30–35 mph.
Mon: 64/44 – Sunny, cooler; breezy early.
Tue: 54/44 – Breezy, partly sunny; isolated showers north.
Wed: 62/45 – Partly cloudy; pleasant fall day for outdoor plans.
