Chicago is waking Wednesday under cloudy skies and temperatures around 66 degrees, but the bigger story is the long, soaking stretch ahead. Showers and thunderstorms are expected through Thursday, with slick roads, reduced visibility and a growing risk of water buildup in low-lying areas.
Rain Intensifies Through Thursday
Rain will continue through Wednesday, with temperatures holding in the mid-60s and south-southwest winds of 10 to 15 mph. Gusts could reach 25 mph, while the afternoon high is expected to stay near 67 degrees before showers and storms continue Wednesday night.
The National Weather Service Chicago/Romeoville office expects widespread rainfall of 1 to 3 inches across the region, with locally higher totals possible, according to the National Weather Service. Chicago and areas along and north of I-80 are favored for some of the higher amounts.
Flooding Concerns Are More About Water Piling Up
Thursday looks like another wet day, with showers and thunderstorms, a high near 71 degrees and a 100% chance of precipitation in the forecast. Rain remains likely Thursday night as temperatures fall to around 59, and heavier bursts could bring brief trouble on roads and in areas with poor drainage.
No watches, warnings or advisories are posted for the city, but the extended rainfall could cause gradual rises on rivers and streams across the region. The weather service says flash flooding should remain fairly localized, while the broader concern is water accumulating over time in low-lying spots.
Sunny, Cooler Weekend Takes Over
The pattern finally breaks Friday, when a few early showers may linger before skies turn mostly sunny and temperatures reach about 62 degrees. Friday night should be mostly clear with a low near 53, followed by a sunny Saturday near 62 and a mostly sunny Sunday near 64.
Monday stays sunny but cooler, with a high around 58 degrees, and Tuesday should reach about 60. For Chicagoans looking for a break from the umbrellas, the weekend offers the first genuinely dry window after the midweek deluge.
