Chicago is starting Thursday with light rain, and the wet weather is expected to intensify before the weekend finally dries out. Temperatures near 64 degrees early will rise into the low 70s, while a broad band of rain is expected, with isolated or embedded thunderstorms possible.
Heavy Rain Arrives By Afternoon
Rain is likely before noon, then showers and thunderstorms should become more widespread from midday through late afternoon. The National Weather Service Chicago/Romeoville office says some storms could produce heavy rain, with 1 to 2 inches possible and narrow pockets exceeding 2 inches.
That much water could mean ponding on roads, reduced visibility and localized flooding, especially where heavier showers repeat. Area rivers and streams may also rise, although no watches, warnings or advisories are listed in the current forecast.
Cold Front Brings A Sharp Friday Turn
Rain should taper from northwest to southeast Thursday evening, but showers may linger into the overnight hours. Winds will turn northerly and strengthen to 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph, as Friday turns mostly sunny with a high near 61.
The latest outlook narrows the wettest stretch to Thursday before a much drier pattern takes over, updating Hoodline's earlier forecast of a broader two-day soaking. Commuters should still expect slick roads and occasional visibility problems while the rain is coming down.
Sunny Weekend Finally Shows Up
Friday night should be mostly clear and cool, with a low around 53. Saturday stays sunny near 61, and Sunday warms to about 68 under mostly sunny skies, with rain chances near zero.
