As Hurricane Francine made landfall in Louisiana, thousands were left without power and flash flooding was a possibility. However, as the storm weakened and moved away from the area, the focus shifted to a different weather pattern in the Midwest. Despite the potential impact of the hurricane, the Chicago area is set to continue with a dry weather pattern, bringing summer-like warmth and hazy skies.
According to NBC 5 meteorologist Alicia Roman, the city can expect a high of 86 degrees on Thursday, with cooler temperatures near the lake. The skies will be mostly sunny, but hazy due to the smoke from western wildfires that has been drifting through the area for the past three days. While the air quality in Chicago is currently listed as “moderate” by AirNow.gov, with levels of fine particulate matter potentially affecting sensitive groups, the website advises individuals to reduce their outdoor activity if they are unusually sensitive to particle pollution.
Despite the hazy skies, Chicagoans can still enjoy the warm weather as temperatures are expected to remain in the 80s for the next 10 days. However, the dry conditions may have an impact on the changing of fall colors in the area. According to Dr. Christy Rollinson from the Morton Arboretum, the warm and dry weather may cause the leaves to change color and die off more quickly. This could result in an earlier peak for fall foliage in Illinois.
The U.S. Drought Monitor currently shows that most of the Chicago area is experiencing abnormally dry conditions due to low levels of rainfall in recent weeks. This hot and dry weather is expected to continue for at least the next week or two, with the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center forecasting above-average temperatures and near-normal precipitation over the next 8-to-14 days.
While this weather pattern may seem concerning, it also means that Chicagoans can continue to enjoy outdoor activities and events without having to worry about rain. However, it is important to remember to stay hydrated and take necessary precautions to prevent any heat-related illnesses.
As the city prepares for the change of season, it is important to note that the warm weather may also have an impact on the peak time for fall foliage. The Morton Arboretum advises keeping an eye on the changing colors and enjoying the beauty of nature during this critical season.
In the midst of all this, Chicagoans can also look forward to another significant event this weekend – the time change. As we move into fall, the city will see its final 7 p.m. sunset this weekend. So, make sure to take advantage of the extra hour of daylight before we turn back the clocks.
As for the potential impact of Hurricane Francine on the Midwest, it is expected to stay mostly towards the south, with some rain potentially reaching southern Illinois and Indiana on Friday. However, the dry conditions are expected to continue for most of the area, with a chance of scattered showers in some parts over the weekend.
In conclusion, while the remnants of Hurricane Francine may have caused concern for some, the Chicago area can look forward to a dry and warm weather pattern for the next few days. This also means that the city can continue to enjoy the last few days of summer before fully embracing the fall season. So, get your sunscreen and sunglasses ready, and make the most of the sunshine and warmth while it lasts.
