Chicago started Saturday, March 28, under clear, chilly skies with temperatures in the upper 20s. Sunshine is expected to nudge readings into the upper 40s this afternoon, but a brisk southwest breeze with gusts near 25 mph will keep it feeling blustery. With low afternoon humidity and dry grasses and brush, officials are flagging an elevated risk for grass and brush fires and urging residents to hold off on any open burning.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
South-southwest winds this afternoon will generally run 5 to 15 mph, with gusts up to about 25 mph that will be strongest along the lakefront and on exposed bridges. Forecasters expect afternoon relative humidity to drop into the mid to upper 20s. Paired with fuels that remain on the dry side, this has prompted an elevated fire-spread concern, according to the National Weather Service Chicago.
Warm Spell Before Storms
Sunday is set to turn noticeably warmer, with highs near 62°F, and Monday looks even milder with highs pushing into the low 70s as more humid air moves into the region. That uptick in humidity brings a greater chance for showers and thunderstorms Monday night into Tuesday, with guidance pointing to the best storm chances Tuesday afternoon and evening. Some storms on Tuesday could be strong. Timing could still shift, so it is a good idea to keep outdoor plans flexible. Cooler, drier air returns by midweek, with highs sliding back into the 40s and a chance of rain or a rain-snow mix overnight Wednesday into Thursday.
What To Do Today
If you have outdoor chores, tackle them earlier in the day before winds and low humidity peak. Skip burning yard waste this afternoon, secure patio furniture, garbage bins, and lightweight decorations, and give extra room to cyclists and high-profile vehicles on exposed bridges. Boat operators should plan for choppy conditions near Lake Michigan and check forecasts before heading out.
Legal Implications
Open burning is restricted inside Chicago and can result in fines or enforcement, while suburban and county regulations vary and often require permits for landscape burns. For specifics, see the City of Chicago code.
