Introduction to Severe Storms
Strong winds and rain showers are expected to sweep across the Chicago area over St. Patrick’s Day weekend, the National Weather Service said.
Friday could be the warmest day of the year so far, with a high of 73 degrees, but with winds of 15 to 20 mph. Wind gusts could reach 40 mph.
Severe Thunderstorms Expected
Severe thunderstorms are possible Friday night, with forecasters predicting a 100% chance of rain.
The thunderstorms “could be kind of a severe weather outbreak from southern Iowa, Missouri, western Illinois,” NWS meteorologist Casey Sullivan said. “And as those storms move into our area … they could be on a weakening trend, so it’s kind of a little bit uncertain exactly how widespread and how strong the severe weather could be.”
Weather Forecast
[4:51 PM CDT 3/12]
Strong southerly winds Fri-Sat, strongest expected on Saturday (from south-southwest), when gusts to around 50 mph are expected area-wide, & damaging wind gusts > 55 mph are possible. Stay tuned for updates and plan ahead for the strong winds. #ILwx #INwx (1/2) pic.twitter.com/rDfv4LRoSd
— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) March 12, 2025
### Saturday’s Weather
Winds will linger, but the skies will clear up for Saturday’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Chicago.
A high of 65 degrees is forecast for Saturday morning and winds could gust up to 50 mph. Cooler air entering the area will bring a low of 33 degrees Saturday night with mostly cloudy skies and a small chance of rain.
### Hazards Associated with Strong Winds
The powerful winds can potentially blow large objects around, knocking down trees and power lines, and could make for hazardous travel conditions, the weather service said. People are advised to secure loose items, such as patio furniture, sports equipment and trash cans.
“During high winds, tree damage is expected, and loose objects can become airborne and dangerous,” the weather service said in a statement. “You are safest indoors, away from windows, in an interior room.”
## Sunday’s Forecast
Sunday’s forecast calls for sunny skies, and the high is expected to be 43 degrees.
## Conclusion
In conclusion, the Chicago area is expected to experience severe storms and strong winds over St. Patrick’s Day weekend. Residents are advised to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and secure any loose items that could become hazardous in strong winds.
## FAQs
Q: What is the forecast for Friday?
A: Friday is expected to be the warmest day of the year so far, with a high of 73 degrees and winds of 15 to 20 mph. Severe thunderstorms are possible Friday night.
Q: What are the hazards associated with strong winds?
A: Strong winds can blow large objects around, knock down trees and power lines, and make for hazardous travel conditions.
Q: What is the forecast for Sunday?
A: Sunday’s forecast calls for sunny skies, and the high is expected to be 43 degrees.
