CHICAGO – If you’re planning to head outdoors this weekend, you may need to keep your umbrella close. After a round of midweek showers, the Chicago area is expected to face a soggy stretch of weather through the weekend, with mild temperatures followed by a sharp cooldown.
Tonight’s Forecast
Showers are tapering off across much of the region this evening, giving way to mostly cloudy skies.
Overnight temperatures will stay relatively mild, dropping only a few degrees into the lower 50s.
Some areas of Northwest Indiana may cool down slightly more, dipping into the upper 40s to near 50 degrees, where skies are expected to clear faster.
Thursday: A Break in the Clouds
Thursday will bring a brief improvement in conditions. Skies are expected to be partly sunny, and temperatures will rise into the upper 60s.
That’s about five degrees above the average for mid-October, which typically sits near 63 degrees in the Chicago area. Overall, Thursday will be one of the most comfortable days of the week.
Friday: Clouds Return, Showers Possible
By Friday, the weather pattern begins to shift again. Clouds will increase throughout the day, making for a mostly cloudy sky, as per Fox Chicago.
A few isolated showers could develop, though most areas should remain dry until the evening. Afternoon highs will reach the lower 70s, keeping conditions mild ahead of an approaching storm system.
Saturday: On and Off Showers and Storms
The first half of the weekend is shaping up to be wet and unsettled. Forecasters expect on and off showers and a few storms across northern Illinois and northwest Indiana on Saturday.
Despite the rain, temperatures will stay relatively warm, hovering in the lower 70s. However, a strong cold front will sweep through late Saturday night, setting the stage for a major temperature drop.
Sunday: Cooler and Windy with Lingering Rain
Sunday will likely start with morning showers, but conditions should gradually dry out as the day progresses.
The bigger story will be the temperature drop — highs will fall into the upper 50s, a sharp contrast from Saturday’s warmth.
In addition, gusty winds could reach 30 mph or higher, adding an extra chill to the air by the afternoon.
Monday: Dry and Pleasant Start to the Week
After the weekend rain clears, Monday will deliver a welcome return to sunny skies and dry conditions.
Highs will climb into the mid-60s, offering a pleasant and seasonable start to the new workweek.
Summary Outlook
- Thursday: Partly sunny, highs in the upper 60s
- Friday: Mostly cloudy, isolated showers, highs in the lower 70s
- Saturday: Showers and storms likely, highs in the lower 70s
- Sunday: Morning rain, windy and cooler, highs in the upper 50s
- Monday: Sunny and pleasant, highs in the mid-60s
Share Your Thoughts
Are you planning to adjust your weekend plans because of the rain in Chicago? How do you plan to make the most of the soggy forecast?
Share your thoughts and weekend ideas in the comments below — let’s see how Chicagoans are preparing for the weather shift!
