Chicago, Illinois – As the weekend approaches, hot and humid weather combined with on-and-off thunderstorms is expected to affect much of northern Illinois, especially Chicago and nearby areas.
With heat indices nearing 100°F and storms possible each day, people planning outdoor activities are being urged to stay weather-aware and take precautions.
Humid and Stormy Start to the Weekend
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Chicago, isolated storms are likely to continue through Friday morning, especially north of Interstate 80. The heat and humidity will remain intense across the region, with daytime highs between 88°F and 93°F and only short breaks from the muggy air.
Saturday: Heat Continues, Storms Hit-or-Miss
Saturday will feel even hotter, with “feels-like” temperatures close to 100°F, especially in areas without much cloud cover. While thunderstorm chances remain scattered, the atmosphere will be unstable enough to support brief heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds, especially during the late afternoon and evening hours.
Sunday Into Monday: Higher Risk of Thunderstorms
Storm activity is expected to increase Sunday, especially northwest of Interstate 55. By late Sunday evening into Monday, more organized storms may develop, bringing:
Sudden downpours
Lightning
Localised flooding
Temporary power outages
Commuters, travelers, and anyone attending outdoor events are advised to keep a close eye on the weather, particularly in suburban and rural areas north and west of the city.
Nighttime Relief Will Be Minimal
Overnight temperatures in downtown Chicago will stay between 70°F and 76°F, providing little comfort after hot days. This prolonged heat without much nighttime cooling can cause added stress for the elderly, children, and those without air conditioning.
Safety Tips for Residents
Health and safety officials recommend the following precautions:
Stay hydrated and drink water regularly
Limit outdoor activities during the afternoon hours
Use sunscreen and seek shade when outside
Charge your mobile devices in case of power cuts
Keep an eye on local weather alerts
Extended Outlook: Unsettled Weather Into Next Week
The humid and stormy pattern is expected to continue into early next week, with Monday and Tuesday seeing another round of scattered storms. The National Weather Service may issue watches or warnings if conditions worsen or storm systems intensify.
Five-Day Weather Forecast for Chicago, IL:
Friday: Isolated storms in the morning, hot and humid.
High: 88–93°F | Low: 71–75°F
Saturday: Widely scattered afternoon storms, heat index close to 100°F.
High: 88–94°F | Low: 70–76°F
Sunday: Humid with higher storm chances, especially NW of I-55.
High: 84–92°F | Low: 68–71°F
Monday: Scattered storms, muggy conditions continue.
High: 83–89°F | Low: 66–70°F
Tuesday: Humid with periodic thunderstorms possible.
High: Upper 80s
