As the Fourth of July weekend approaches, Chicagoans are keeping a close eye on the weather forecast. After a morning of showers and storms the city is bracing for more unpredictable conditions. The Extreme Heat Warning has been lifted for most areas, but it remains in effect until 7 p.m. for the Kankakee River Valley counties and points south.
The forecast for today includes a reasonable chance of hitting 90 degrees at O’Hare marking the fifth consecutive day of such scorching temperatures. Showers and storms are expected throughout the day and night, but there will be more dry hours than wet ones. Overnight lows are anticipated to be in the low 70s.
Fourth of July forecast: storms and humidity
For the Fourth of July the weather pattern remains uncertain. Storms are likely to threaten at various times, but there will also be dry intervals. The day will be very warm and humid with highs in the mid to upper 80s between any rounds of showers and storms.
Both today and tomorrow, there is a risk that any storm could turn severe with damaging winds and heavy rainfall being the primary hazards.
Weekend outlook and storm damage
On Sunday the likelihood of showers and storms persists, but the coverage is expected to be less extensive. Highs will be in the mid 80s. Looking ahead to next week temperatures more typical of early July will remain in place, with highs in the low to mid 80s on Monday and Tuesday potentially warming back up to near 90 by Thursday.
Reports indicate that last night’s storms caused damage in several areas. Trees were downed near Elmhurst and Villa Park and flooding was reported in Southern Kane and Northern Kendall counties. Areas such as Sugar GroveSandwichAurora and Montgomery may experience high-standing water.
