CHICAGO — A highly active weather pattern continues to impact the Chicago area, with rounds of heavy rain, humid air, and the potential for strong to severe thunderstorms expected to linger through the weekend.
More showers and thunderstorms are likely this morning, although the Flood Watch, originally set to expire at 7 a.m., was canceled early. Despite the early improvement, additional waves of storms are forecast to push through the region today, keeping conditions unsettled.
Ground stop lifted at O’Hare Airport
Thunderstorms earlier this morning triggered a ground stop at O’Hare International Airport, according to the FAA. That restriction was lifted around 8:15 a.m., but the impact on air travel was already felt. Over the past 24 hours, nearly 200 flights were canceled, and delays are currently averaging around 15 minutes.
Rainfall totals vary across the region
Rainfall over the past day has varied significantly. Parts of Northwest Indiana received only a few hundredths of an inch, while much of the metro area picked up around 1 inch. Heavier downpours soaked areas of northern Kane, northwestern DuPage, and southwestern McHenry counties, where 2.5 to 4.5 inches (6.3 to 11.4 cm) of rain have been reported. The Rockford area and northern Winnebago County recorded the highest totals.
Storm threat continues into Friday evening
After a brief lull late this morning and early afternoon, the next round of thunderstorms is expected to develop by late afternoon and push through during the evening hours. Some of these storms could become severe, bringing heavy downpours, gusty winds, and potentially dangerous lightning.
Highs today may stay a few degrees lower due to cloud cover and scattered showers, but the air will remain warm and muggy, with temperatures climbing into the mid to upper 80s (around 30°C–32°C). Any storm activity should taper off late tonight, well after dark.
Looking ahead to the weekend
Saturday may start off with a lingering morning shower, but attention shifts to the southern portion of the viewing area later in the day, where another round of storms could fire up. Some of those could also be on the strong side, with highs hovering around 85°F (29°C).
Sunday and Monday are shaping up to be dry and warmer, with daytime highs in the mid 80s to low 90s (29°C–33°C) and a return to more stable weather.
By Tuesday and Wednesday, however, the region will once again be under the influence of warm, humid air, with a daily chance for showers and storms as instability rebuilds.
