Chicago started Monday, July 13, 2026, on the sticky side, with early-morning temperatures hanging in the low 70s and humidity you can feel. Skies stay sunny and the afternoon high should land near 88°F. Light winds along the lakefront mean shoreline neighborhoods get a bit of an edge while inland areas turn noticeably warmer, so plan those outdoor plans with the heat in mind.
Afternoon Lake Breeze Offers Limited Relief
A weak lake breeze is expected to kick in later today and take the edge off along the shoreline, but the farther you are from the water, the less help you will get. Inland neighborhoods are on track for mid to upper 80s as the air mixes more efficiently. Tonight stays warm and muggy, with lows holding in the mid 70s while south-southwest breezes settle over the city.
Peak Heat Tuesday Into Wednesday
From Monday, July 13 through Thursday, July 16, temperatures are forecast to hover in the upper 80s, but forecasters say some inland spots could jump into the upper 90s late Tuesday, July 14, and Wednesday, July 15. That kind of heat will push heat indices near 100°F and in some locations close to 105°F. The National Weather Service is keeping tabs on trends and has not yet issued widespread heat warnings for Chicago; for the latest forecast discussion, check the National Weather Service.
Storm Chances And Weekend Outlook
A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms returns later in the week. Scattered afternoon storms with gusty winds are most likely from Friday into the weekend, with Friday’s daytime highs aiming for the low 90s. Any storms that do pop up should be brief but could drop heavy rain in spots, so if you have outdoor plans, it is worth tracking the hourly updates.
Where To Find Cooling And Stay Safe
The city operates a network of cooling centers, libraries, and Park District sites, and you can call 311 or check the City of Chicago cooling-center map for locations and hours. Stay hydrated, steer clear of strenuous activity during the hottest part of the afternoon, and check in on older neighbors or anyone who may not have reliable air conditioning.
