A series of strong storms is expected to hit the Chicago area this weekend as temperatures drop significantly. The National Weather Service warns that the region will transition from a period of dry weather to potential rain and thunderstorms, beginning Thursday afternoon and continuing intermittently through Sunday.
Temperatures will remain warm in the lead-up to this storm system, with highs of 73 on Thursday, 80 on Friday, and 77 on Saturday. However, a marked cooldown is anticipated for Sunday, with temperatures only reaching a high of 60 degrees accompanied by gusty winds.
The forecast indicates a chance of light showers on Thursday afternoon, more likely in the northern areas along Interstate 80, and again in the early hours of Friday. Most regions are expected to remain dry during this initial phase. However, rain is expected to develop late Friday and persist through Sunday, with a notable risk of thunderstorms throughout the weekend.
AccuWeather has highlighted concerns over severe weather conditions particularly on Saturday, affecting parts of central Illinois and central Indiana. Brett Anderson, a Senior Meteorologist at AccuWeather, stated that there is a moderate risk for severe thunderstorms spanning from central Arkansas to southwestern Illinois, indicating a likelihood of numerous severe storms and possible tornadoes.
The detailed forecast for the weekend is as follows: Thursday will feature mostly cloudy skies with a high near 70 degrees; Thursday night will see partly cloudy conditions and a low of around 55 degrees. On Friday, expect partly sunny skies with a high around 75 degrees and breezy conditions in the afternoon. Friday night carries a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m., with a low around 62 degrees. Saturday may bring showers and possibly more severe thunderstorms, with a high near 72 degrees and an 80% chance of precipitation. The night will cool down to around 48 degrees, still with an 80% chance of rain.
As the Chicago area braces for this weather shift, residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepare for possible severe weather conditions throughout the weekend.