Weather Forecast and Updates
Introduction to Weather Forecasting
Weather forecasting is the process of predicting the weather conditions for a specific region over a certain period of time. It involves analyzing various atmospheric conditions, such as temperature, humidity, wind patterns, and other factors, to predict future weather patterns. In this article, we will discuss the current weather forecast, climate, and environment, as well as provide an overview of the weather maps, interactive radar, and other tools used in weather forecasting.
Current Weather Conditions
OVERNIGHT: A good deal of cloudiness, with isolated showers and perhaps a thunderstorm early. Patchy fog late, especially near Lake Michigan. Light northeast winds under 10 mph. Low: 59.
Wednesday is likely to begin very similar to the way Tuesday opened, with a fair amount of cloud coverage and potentially some fog in lakeside areas. A Dense Fog Advisory is in effect for Illinois and Indiana near the shore, from Winthrop Harbor to Michigan City until 1 p.m. Wednesday afternoon.
Wednesday’s Weather Forecast
Areas away from the lake will see more sunshine emerge following early clouds with another warm day expected as highs in those locations top out in the lower 80s for a third day in a row. Highs near the lake will remain cool, only reaching the lower to middle 60s setting up another impressive temperature spread across the area.
Chance of Showers and Thunderstorms
Modest instability in the atmosphere due to the proximity of an upper-level low pressure system south and east of Chicago will at least present a modest chance of seeing a shower or perhaps an isolated thunderstorm. Most of the metro area will remain dry, with rainfall coverage limited to mainly areas well south/southwest of Chicago.
Wednesday Forecast Highs Across the U.S.
Wednesday Highs: How Far from Normal?
Weather Maps and Tools
Weather Maps
Climate & Environment
Interactive Radar
Weather Bug Cameras
7-Day Outlook
Weather Center Newsletter
Current Conditions and Forecast
Current Conditions
Next Few Hours
Looking Ahead
Thursday promises to bring July-level heat for virtually the entire area, the lone exception being the far north communities near the shore where a southeast wind may slice in off the lake bringing slightly cooler air. The record high for the date is 91 degrees set back in 1962, and we stand a chance of getting close if not reaching that level. The unusual early season heat and humidity (very high dewpoints for May) coupled with an approaching cold front could set the stage for potentially severe thunderstorms later in the day and into Thursday evening.
Severe Thunderstorms Risk
The Chicago area is currently in a level 2 of 5 risk for severe thunderstorms, with an even higher risk northwest of us, including much of west central Wisconsin. Primary hazards would be damaging winds and large hail, but isolated tornadoes cannot be ruled out in this environment.
Upper Air Pattern Moving Forward
Digging troughs out of Canada repeatedly over an eastern Pacific ridge will prevent heat from building or gaining a foothold across the rest of the lower 48 except for Texas and Florida.
May’s Warming Trend
Conclusion
In conclusion, the current weather forecast indicates a warm and sunny day for most areas, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms in the late afternoon and evening. The upper air pattern moving forward suggests a cooler pattern taking shape in May’s final week across the Great Lakes
