Severe Weather Alert: Storms and Temperature Swings Ahead for Chicago

CHICAGO – A significant change in weather patterns is anticipated in the Chicagoland area as residents prepare for unsettled conditions heading into the weekend. A warm front is projected to move northward tonight, bringing rain and potential thunderstorms.

Scattered showers and storms are expected late tonight into early Friday morning, with the heaviest likelihood of severe weather occurring between midnight and dawn. The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Marginal Risk for severe storms, particularly affecting LaSalle and southwestern Grundy County, where hail may accompany these storms.

According to Emily Wahls, WJZ meteorologist, “Rain and storms will diminish quickly by mid-morning on Friday, giving way to sunny skies by the afternoon.” Southwest winds are predicted to gust up to 40 mph, boosting afternoon temperatures into the mid to upper 70s, allowing residents to enjoy a brief taste of summer.

As the weekend approaches, temperatures are projected to cool down significantly. Saturday will be relatively warm with highs in the upper 60s to near 70 degrees, before a noticeable drop on Sunday. Scattered showers with possible storms may accompany cooler temperatures, expected to range from the lower 60s in Chicago to the mid-50s near the Wisconsin border.

By Monday, a cold front is expected to sweep through, bringing temperatures down to the lower 40s in the days that follow. Monday may see rain or snow showers to start before conditions improve, with highs only in the upper 50s by Tuesday afternoon.

“Temperatures will begin to drop drastically, potentially into the low 40s by early next week. We will continue to monitor the situation, especially as more rain and storms add uncertainty to the forecast,” said Wahls.

The weather scenario is compounded by the upcoming Baltimore Orioles’ home opener on Monday, which could be affected by potentially severe weather. WJZ has issued a First Alert Weather Day for that afternoon due to the risk of thunderstorms around game time.

“Although widespread severe weather is not anticipated, localized storms could produce gusty winds,” added Wahls. Cloud cover will play a critical role in determining the severity of any storms that develop.

With warm conditions still possible ahead of Monday’s cold front, residents are advised to stay updated on the weather and be prepared for fluctuating temperatures heading into the new week.