As the weekend approaches, Chicago residents can look forward to warmer temperatures, but also an active weather pattern that could bring rain, storms, and potentially severe weather. While Friday morning started off clear and dry, NBC 5 meteorologist Iisha Scott warned of a looming weather system that could bring significant changes to the area.
According to Scott, the next few days will see periods of rain, but it won’t be a complete washout. There will still be dry time throughout Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with a noticeable increase in temperatures. However, the threat of severe weather, including hail, gusty winds, and even tornadoes, hangs over the weekend forecast.
Already on Friday morning, rain and thunderstorms had started to move through the state’s southwestern counties. As the day progresses, these showers and storms will make their way towards Chicago, with multiple waves of rain expected throughout the afternoon and evening. Another round of showers and storms is also expected to come through later tonight and continue into the overnight hours.
The National Weather Service has issued a “marginal” risk of severe weather for parts of the western counties, including DeKalb, Kane, Grundy, and LaSalle. This means that there is a level one out of five chance of severe weather occurring, according to the Storm Prediction Center. The main threats associated with this system are gusty, damaging winds and the possibility of small hail.
The chances for strong to severe storms increase even more over the weekend. While Saturday will see some dry time, there is still a chance for isolated showers or storms to form in the afternoon or evening. The NWS warns that any storms that do form on Saturday could turn severe. The “slight” risk of severe weather, which ranks as level two out of five, will be in effect for parts of the northern and western counties, while the “marginal” risk will remain for areas to the east and south.
In addition to the possibility of hail and gusty winds, there is also a chance for brief tornadoes on Saturday evening. However, the NBC 5 Storm Team reassures that these storms will not be widespread and will be isolated in nature.
Saturday will also bring summer-like temperatures, with highs reaching into the upper 70s and low 80s. Areas near the lake may experience cooler temperatures. On Sunday, the warm temperatures will continue, with highs in the 70s and 80s. However, there will also be higher chances for rain and storms in the afternoon, some of which could be on the stronger side.
While the active weather pattern is expected to continue into Monday, temperatures will remain warm, with highs in the 70s. So while Chicagoans may have to deal with some rain and storms over the weekend, they can take comfort in the fact that the warm weather is here to stay.
As we head into the weekend, it’s important to stay informed and prepared for any potential severe weather. Keep an eye on the latest forecast and be sure to take any necessary precautions. And remember, even with the possibility of storms, there is still plenty of time for outdoor activities and enjoying the beautiful city of Chicago. So let’s embrace the warmer temperatures and make the most of this active weather pattern.
