Timeline of severe weather threatening Chicago area amid dangerous heat wave
The Chicago area is dealing with a variety of weather threats this week, with scorching heat, suffocating humidity and severe storms all in the forecast.
Extreme Weather Conditions Hit Chicago Area: Excessive Heat, Severe Storms, and Air Quality Alert
Chicago residents are facing a trifecta of weather threats this week, as scorching heat, unbearable humidity, and severe storms loom over the region.
Excessive Heat Warning
Excessive heat warnings remain active through Tuesday evening, with dew points soaring to nearly 80 degrees and heat indices exceeding 110 degrees in some areas. Residents are urged to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses, including staying indoors, staying hydrated, and wearing loose, lightweight clothing.
Severe Thunderstorm Watch
McHenry and Lake counties are under a severe thunderstorm watch until early Tuesday afternoon. The main threats associated with these storms are damaging winds reaching 60 miles per hour and large hail up to quarter-size. Additionally, heavy rain may lead to localized flooding, particularly in drought-prone areas. The entire Chicago area is at a slight risk of severe weather.
Air Quality Alert
An air quality alert is in effect due to elevated ozone levels, which can be harmful to respiratory health. Authorities recommend minimizing outdoor activities, especially for sensitive individuals.
Upcoming Weather Pattern
More showers and thunderstorms are possible late Tuesday evening or into Wednesday morning, primarily south of Interstate 80. These storms may still be strong-to-severe, with gusty winds and large hail. Scattered thunderstorms remain a possibility on Wednesday, although temperatures will start to decline.
Temperatures in the mid-to-upper 80s and high humidity will prevail on Thursday. Isolated showers and storms may occur. By Friday, high temperatures will drop into the low-80s, and more scattered showers and storms are expected.
Weekend Outlook
The weather is expected to improve over the weekend, with dry conditions and pleasant temperatures. Saturday and Sunday will bring highs in the mid-80s to low-80s, respectively. By Monday, temperatures will dip into the 70s, providing a welcomed respite from the recent heat.
Chicago residents are facing a trifecta of weather threats this week, as scorching heat, unbearable humidity, and severe storms loom over the region.
Excessive Heat Warning
Excessive heat warnings remain active through Tuesday evening, with dew points soaring to nearly 80 degrees and heat indices exceeding 110 degrees in some areas. Residents are urged to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses, including staying indoors, staying hydrated, and wearing loose, lightweight clothing.
Severe Thunderstorm Watch
McHenry and Lake counties are under a severe thunderstorm watch until early Tuesday afternoon. The main threats associated with these storms are damaging winds reaching 60 miles per hour and large hail up to quarter-size. Additionally, heavy rain may lead to localized flooding, particularly in drought-prone areas. The entire Chicago area is at a slight risk of severe weather.
Air Quality Alert
An air quality alert is in effect due to elevated ozone levels, which can be harmful to respiratory health. Authorities recommend minimizing outdoor activities, especially for sensitive individuals.
Upcoming Weather Pattern
More showers and thunderstorms are possible late Tuesday evening or into Wednesday morning, primarily south of Interstate 80. These storms may still be strong-to-severe, with gusty winds and large hail. Scattered thunderstorms remain a possibility on Wednesday, although temperatures will start to decline.
Temperatures in the mid-to-upper 80s and high humidity will prevail on Thursday. Isolated showers and storms may occur. By Friday, high temperatures will drop into the low-80s, and more scattered showers and storms are expected.
Weekend Outlook
The weather is expected to improve over the weekend, with dry conditions and pleasant temperatures. Saturday and Sunday will bring highs in the mid-80s to low-80s, respectively. By Monday, temperatures will dip into the 70s, providing a welcomed respite from the recent heat.