CHICAGO, IL – After a stretch of cooler weather, Chicago is bracing for a significant shift in wind patterns that will trigger a week-long streak of summer-like heat and potential severe weather.
The Heat Wave Begins
Winds shifting to the southeast on Wednesday will push temperatures into the 80s across the area. This marks the beginning of an extended warm streak expected to last through at least next Tuesday.
Weather data shows Chicago has not experienced seven consecutive days of 80-degree temperatures since late July of last year—exactly 307 days ago.
Flirting With 90 Degrees
The heat will intensify later in the week, with some local areas approaching 90 degrees by Thursday and Friday. Overnight lows will also climb, holding steady in the mid-60s.
A typical high temperature for early June in Chicago is usually in the mid-to-upper 70s, making this upcoming stretch significantly warmer than average.
Severe Storm Risk On Friday
A weak front dropping into the region on Friday afternoon could trigger strong to severe thunderstorms. The combination of hot air, rising humidity, and incoming front creates a volatile mix for the metro area.
Depending on how quickly the front moves through, storm chances could linger into Saturday morning, though the bulk of the weekend is expected to trend dry with highs remaining in the mid-80s.
The Extended Forecast
- Wednesday & Thursday: Ample sunshine, highs in the mid-to-upper 80s.
- Friday: Hot and humid, highs near 90°F with afternoon storm risks.
- Saturday: Mid-80s with lingering early morning storm chances, turning dry.
- Sunday & Monday: Partly cloudy, dry, and continued warm with highs in the mid-80s.
