Chicago is starting Friday under a blanket of clouds, with temperatures in the low 70s and a high near 76. A few showers could pop up before noon, while the chance of thunderstorms remains slight through the afternoon. East-northeast winds around 10 mph will keep the day cooler than the calendar might suggest.
Heavier Rain Threat Arrives Overnight
The bigger weather concern comes Friday night, when showers and thunderstorms become more likely after 9 p.m. Rain chances rise to about 60%, and some locations could pick up a quarter- to half-inch before Saturday morning.
Saturday is shaping up to be the soggiest day of the weekend, with an 80% chance of showers and thunderstorms, a high near 83 and southeast winds that could gust to 20 mph. The National Weather Service Chicago office says locally torrential rain and flooding could become a concern in parts of Northern Illinois, particularly around and north of I-80, where additional alerts may be needed.
Sunday Stays Stormy Before A Brief Reset
Showers and thunderstorms remain possible Sunday, with a high near 83 and another 60% chance of rain. The weather may finally settle down Sunday night, followed by mostly sunny skies Monday and a more comfortable high near 77.
Tuesday looks like the best outdoor window in the near-term forecast, with sunshine and a high around 80. Storm chances return Wednesday, followed by slightly cooler and mostly sunny conditions Thursday, according to the National Weather Service Chicago.
What Chicagoans Should Watch
Friday afternoon plans may be manageable, but anyone heading out late Friday or early Saturday should be prepared for thunderstorms, heavy downpours and slower travel. Never drive through a flooded roadway, and check updated forecasts before traveling into areas that have already received substantial rain.
