Chicago Braces for Heat as Surprise Storm Risk Looms

Chicago Braces for Heat as Surprise Storm Risk Looms

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The Chicago area is forecast to be hot and humid Sunday with a chance of scattered strong-to-severe thunderstorms late in the day and into the evening. The Storm Prediction Center highlights the greatest concern for storms west of Interstate 55; McHenry, Lake, DeKalb, Kane and LaSalle counties are at a “marginal” risk for severe weather.

Main threats
– Heavy rainfall, especially over areas along and north of the Wisconsin-Illinois border that have already seen significant rain.
– Gusty, potentially damaging wind gusts up to about 60 mph.
– Localized flooding — McHenry and Lake counties remain under a flood watch through 10 a.m. today.

Current conditions and short-term forecast
Showers and storms are still spinning over northwest Illinois and southern Wisconsin this morning, and additional scattered showers/storms are possible elsewhere around the region. Humid conditions will help fuel storms that develop late Sunday and overnight. Heat indices are expected to climb into the mid-90s, with air temperatures near 90°F.

What to expect this week
– Monday: Similar pattern — upper-80s to low-90s with afternoon and evening storm chances.
– Tuesday: A bit cooler, mid-80s, but still humid with more shower/storm potential.
– Wednesday: Humidity drops and temperatures become more comfortable in the low- to mid-80s.
– Late week/weekend: Heat and humidity likely return, with readings back into the low-90s and higher heat indices possible.

Why this is happening (brief explanation)
High humidity and warm temperatures increase atmospheric instability and the available energy for thunderstorms. Where storms become organized, strong downdrafts can produce damaging wind gusts, and slow-moving or repeated storms over saturated ground raise the risk of flash flooding.

Practical tips
– Heed flood watches and warnings; never drive through flooded roadways.
– Secure outdoor items and bring pets/people to safety if strong winds or lightning are nearby.
– Keep devices charged and have an emergency kit ready in case of power outages.
– Sign up for local alerts or use a trusted weather app for real-time warnings.

Short summary
Chicago-area residents should prepare for a hot, humid Sunday with scattered late-day storms most likely west of I-55. Heavy rain and gusty winds (up to ~60 mph) are the primary threats, with flood watches in effect for parts of the region. Conditions moderate midweek before heat and humidity likely return by the weekend.

Positive note
Although unsettled weather and heat will persist through parts of the week, midweek looks more comfortable and drier — a good window for outdoor plans and recovery from recent rain. Stay weather-aware and take basic precautions to stay safe.

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