Chicagoans might want to keep an umbrella close by, as the city prepares for unpredictable weather starting this afternoon. There's a 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5 pm this Memorial Day, with a mostly cloudy sky and a high near 71 degrees. Additionally, the evening could see more showers and thunderstorms before clearing up a bit after 1 am, according to the National Weather Service.
Scattered thunderstorms will develop later this afternoon into the evening. A few of these storms may become severe with a primary threat for locally damaging wind gusts and small hail. The main severe window is about 4 to 10 pm. #ILwx #INwx pic.twitter.com/AMBzuQrxhI
— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) May 27, 2024
The rest of the week seems to be a mixed bag, the wind is expected to be steady with gusts that could reach up to 15 mph tonight. Precipitation chances increase to 60% on Tuesday with new rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible. The outlook improves by Wednesday, heralding sunny skies and cooler temperatures, setting a pleasant stage for outdoor activities until the weekend.
Scattered thunderstorms are expected later this afternoon and evening, some of which could produce damaging wind gusts. Following another period of storms Tuesday, dry and cool conditions are expected mid to late week. #ILwx #INwx pic.twitter.com/EBDAV2IPBo
— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) May 27, 2024
The National Weather Service's Hazardous Weather Outlook cautions that there is a "Limited Thunderstorm Risk" along with "Limited Damaging Wind Risk...up to 60 mph" for today and tonight. Furthermore, 'scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected later this afternoon into the evening,' the outlook warns, noting the possibility of damaging winds.
More turbulent conditions could present a risk for beachgoers as well; a "High Swim Risk" is in effect for Lake Michigan beaches on Wednesday. Boaters should also take heed later this week, as "Hazardous conditions for small craft are likely." For those planning ahead for the weekend, it's wise to stay tuned as there's again a "Limited Thunderstorm Risk" on both Saturday and Sunday, as per the NWS Hazardous Weather Outlook.
Adding to the caution, a post from NWS Chicago warns that a few of the thunderstorms brewing later today "may become severe with a primary threat for locally damaging wind gusts and small hail." The timeframe to watch out for severe weather is between 4 and 10 pm. With these potential hazards in the forecast, residents and visitors in the Windy City should remain alert and prepared for a swift change in weather conditions throughout the week.
