Chicagoans gearing up for the St. Patrick's Day festivities encountered a windy challenge this Saturday as the city issued a high wind warning in effect from 7:00 a.m. until noon, followed by a wind advisory lasting until 5:00 p.m. Despite the heat on Friday, with near-record temperatures, the city braced for the blustery conditions anticipated to coincide with the renowned river dyeing and parade, NBC Chicago reports.
Wind speeds were expected to make themselves known, with forecasts of gusts reaching up to 60 miles per hour and sustained winds at 25 to 35 miles per hour during the morning hours. Such conditions continue to leave nearly 7,900 ComEd customers without power, primarily outside the immediate Chicago area, in places like Kane County and the North Shore. "For the duration of the high wind warning, which covers the 10 a.m. start time of the Chicago River dyeing, gusts of up to 60 miles per hour are expected," according to NBC Chicago.
Despite the strong winds, temperatures in Chicago remained warm for this time of year, reaching into the low-to-mid-60s. Attendees of the midday St. Patrick's Day Parade were advised to prepare for continued gusty conditions, even as the high wind warning gave way to an advisory in the afternoon.
The spirited winds are expected to be a precursor to a significant cooldown, with the National Weather Service forecasting rain likely after 10:00 p.m., transitioning to snow after 4:00 a.m. Temperatures will dip to the low 30s, cold enough for some snow accumulation, especially on grass and elevated surfaces. "Chance of precipitation is 60%. Little or no snow accumulation expected," the National Weather Service notes.
Looking ahead, the weather is slated to take another turn as the new week begins. Chicagoans can expect a reprieve from the wintry mix with sunny skies on Monday and highs climbing back into the mid-50s. By Tuesday, the mercury is set to rise even further, reaching the upper 60s and giving residents a preview of spring amid the unpredictable March climate.
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