The city of Chicago is currently experiencing a significant temperature drop with an incoming series of heavy downpours, following a period of unusually high temperatures that led to a rare dust storm. As NBC 5's meteorologist Alicia Roman describes, Monday's weather saw a stark variation in temperatures, ranging from the upper 40s to low 50s near the lakefront to the warmer 60s and 70s farther inland and south. According to NBC Chicago, these cooler conditions are expected to last for the coming two weeks, with predictions indicating a strong possibility of below-average temperatures through June 1.
Periods of rain tonight and Tues with chance for a few t-storms. Showers or drizzle continue Tues night and Wed. Large temp differences today and Tues, with highs in the 50s across northern IL and in the upper 60s to lower 70s for areas well inland and south of I-80. ILWX INWX pic.twitter.com/XQwB84Nqu2
— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) May 19, 2025
The National Weather Service forecasts a sharp change in conditions, with cloudy skies and a high near 55 degrees today, accompanied by breezy northeast winds. Tonight brings showers and a chance of thunderstorms after 4 a.m., with gusts up to 30 mph. This shift follows a dramatic reversal from the record-breaking heat Chicago experienced just days ago, now giving way to cooler, wetter weather.
Tuesday's outlook promises continuous precipitation with the chance of showers and thunderstorms throughout the day, and breezy conditions persisting with easterly winds around 20 mph. Precipitation chances are pegged at 100%, accompanied by new rainfall amounts between a half and three-quarters of an inch. "A pretty decent soaking," was how Roman phrased it, signaling an all-day event that is expected to contribute up to 1.5 to 2 inches of rain, potentially leading to slippery roads during commute times. "Nothing severe," Roman assured, as per NBC Chicago.
Wednesday's forecast continues the rainy trend, with a 70 percent chance of showers and a high near 56, as detailed by the National Weather Service. As the week progresses, a gradual warming is anticipated, and by Saturday, the city could see mostly sunny conditions with highs creeping up to the lower 60s.
