Chicago

Chicago Gets A Sunny Breather Before A Very Wet Weekend

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Published on July 29, 2026
Chicago Gets A Sunny Breather Before A Very Wet WeekendSource: X/NWS Chicago

Chicago gets a rare July reset Wednesday: clear skies, comfortable humidity and a high near 75 degrees. North-northeast winds and a lake breeze should keep the lakefront a little cooler, making this one of the easier days in the forecast for outdoor plans.

Sunny And Comfortable Through Thursday

Wednesday night stays mostly clear, with temperatures dipping to around 68 degrees and light northwest winds. Thursday should remain mostly sunny with a high near 79 and only a slight chance of rain.

Rain Arrives Friday And Lingers Into Saturday

The forecast takes a sharp turn Friday, when showers are likely to begin after 7 a.m. and temperatures top out near 77 degrees. The chance of rain reaches 60%, with gusts up to 20 mph and a wetter, cloudier feel across the city.

Rain is expected to continue Friday night, when thunderstorms could bring pockets of heavy rain. The National Weather Service Chicago says widespread rainfall totals of more than an inch are possible, while Saturday could bring more rain and thunderstorms before conditions gradually improve; the latest outlook is available from the National Weather Service.

Lake Michigan Beaches Face Morning Hazards

A Beach Hazards Statement remains in effect through 10 a.m. Wednesday for Chicago-area Lake Michigan beaches, with waves of 3 to 6 feet and dangerous currents expected. Swimmers should stay out of the water, and everyone should avoid piers, jetties, breakwalls and other shoreline structures until conditions improve.

Sunday Brings A Reset Before Warmer Weather

Saturday night may still feature a few showers or thunderstorms, but Sunday looks mostly sunny with a high near 75. Monday should reach about 79 degrees, followed by a warmer Tuesday near 84 with mostly sunny skies and only a slight chance of evening showers.