Clouds are hanging over Chicago Midway this morning, with temperatures already in the mid-70s and a line of showers and a few thunderstorms marching through during the morning commute. Some of those storms could kick up gusty winds and brief, heavy downpours. More rounds of rain and rumbles are expected into Tuesday, which could throw a wrench into outdoor plans and the evening drive.
For today, Monday, May 18, 2026, there is a chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7 a.m., then showers and thunderstorms are likely between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m., with a high near 816F. South-southwest winds will be on the breezy side, generally 15 to 30 mph with gusts as high as 30 mph, and new rainfall amounts of a tenth to a quarter inch are possible, according to the National Weather Service in Chicago.
Morning Commute And Outdoor Plans
Heavier downpours could leave roads slick and visibility reduced, so it is worth building in a little extra time and taking it easy on the gas pedal. If you have a morning run, kids' sports, or early patio plans, keep the rain gear handy and have an indoor backup ready to go. Lightweight furniture, decorations, or trash bins could get jostled around in the gusts, so securing them is not a bad idea. Transit riders may see some delays where the rain is heaviest, so checking your bus or train status before heading out could save some frustration.
Through Tuesday And Midweek
Another batch of showers and thunderstorms is possible late Monday night into Tuesday morning, with more storms potentially firing Tuesday afternoon and evening as a front pushes through the area. Once that front moves by, a much cooler air mass settles in on Wednesday, dropping highs into the mid-50s and bringing breezy northeast winds along the lakefront. If you have travel or outdoor plans through Tuesday, keeping an eye on forecast updates will help you dodge the worst of the rain.
