Chicago residents, brace yourselves for another sweltering day. The city is set to mark its 18th day of temperatures soaring past the 90° mark, tying this year's count with what is typically witnessed across an entire year, as reported by FOX32 Chicago. Although we're a long stretch from breaking the record of 47 days set in 1988, the mercury keeps climbing, and the heat just doesn't seem to let up.
As if the heat weren't enough, air quality alerts have been extended into the night due to the combination of high temperatures and stagnant air contributing to increased ozone levels. In addition, there's a looming risk of thunderstorms later this evening. "There remains quite a bit of uncertainty as to how strong any of these storms will be when they move into our area," FOX32 Chicago notes, with the potential for one or two to quickly turn severe.
Turning to the immediate weather outlook, the National Weather Service predicts a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms today, primarily after 4 pm. With heat index values possibly hitting 98, staying hydrated and cool is more than just good advice—it's a necessity. The forecast for tonight indicates likely showers and thunderstorms before 7 pm, with temperatures cooling to a low around 70.
The relief from the heat is in sight, with Thursday bringing dramatically cooler weather. Highs are expected to barely reach the 70s in most of Chicagoland, although southern areas may experience a slight uptick into the low 80s before temperatures fall in the afternoon. Meanwhile, "Friday should be a beautiful day with plenty of sunshine and high temperatures rising into the lower 80s," per FOX32 Chicago. Looking ahead to the weekend, showers and thunderstorms are likely on Saturday, while Sunday's forecast currently indicates drier and warmer conditions.
Next week, hot weather is expected to make a return, and by Tuesday, 90-degree temperatures are likely once again. As the steamy days continue, residents should be prepared for scattered thunderstorms to accompany the rising heat. It appears that Chicago's summer is shaping up to be one for the books, with both extreme temperatures and stormy weather patterns to watch out for in the days to come.
