Chicagoans expecting a warm kickoff to summer might need to hold on to their jackets a bit longer, as a cooler-than-average Memorial Day weekend is forecasted for the region. According to the National Weather Service, temperatures are set to peak in the low 60s throughout the holiday period, with an east northeast wind adding some chill. Despite the cooler temps, participants of outdoor events should experience a reprieve from rain, with clear skies anticipated.
Tonight, as per reports by the National Weather Service, the thermometer might drop to a brisk 49 degrees, signifying a chilly evening ahead. Moving into Saturday, a high of 66 degrees is on the forecast—still under the typical seasonal average that rests comfortably between 70 to 71 degrees. According to a FOX32 Chicago report, thunderstorms threaten the Upper Midwest and parts of downstate Illinois, yet Chicagoans can breathe easy as these disturbances are predicted to maintain a respectful distance from the city.
Memorial Day itself should greet residents with sunlit skies and a high around 59 degrees, says the National Weather Service. Monday will likely begin with sunshine before clouds gradually take stage later in the day. While beachgoers and picnic planners can expect pleasant conditions during the day, the evening anticipates a dip to around 54 degrees—ideal for those preferring cooler nights.
Looking ahead to the workweek, a semblance of normalcy in temperature is on the horizon with Tuesday seeing a slight chance of scattered showers and highs inching back up to near 60 degrees. According to FOX32 Chicago, Thursday continues the warming trend with the low 70s making a comeback, alongside Friday bringing potential for more rain—a nostalgic reminder of more quintessential spring weather.
