Wild Weather Weekend Ahead for Chicagoland Residents
CHICAGO – Chicagoland residents should brace for a wild weather weekend as strong winds, fire risks, and the potential for severe storms are on the horizon.
Wind advisories and fire warnings are already in effect, with even stronger gusts expected Saturday before a temperature drop brings a chance of snow by Sunday.
What We Know About the Weather
What we know:
Today’s weather will be warm and windy with highs in the low 70s near the lake and upper 70s inland. Winds will pick up through the afternoon, reaching 40-50 mph.
Fire Risk
Fire risk
A fire weather watch and warning are in effect due to dry conditions and gusty winds, increasing the risk of fast-spreading fires. Outdoor burning is discouraged.
Tonight’s Storms
Tonight’s storms
A line of severe thunderstorms is expected between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m. The Storm Prediction Center has placed Chicagoland in a level 2-5 to level 4/5 severe threat. Strong winds, heavy rain, and possible tornadoes are concerns.
Approximate storm timeframe | NWS
Saturday’s Forecast
Saturday’s forecast
Mostly sunny and mild with highs in the upper 60s, but winds will be even stronger, with gusts up to 60 mph. A high wind watch is in effect from morning to mid-afternoon.
Weekend Changes
Weekend changes
Rain and snow are possible late Saturday into Sunday morning, with temperatures dropping to the low to mid-30s overnight. Sunday’s high will be in the mid-40s with partly sunny skies.
What We Don’t Know
What we don’t know:
The exact severity of tonight’s storms remains uncertain, but residents should have multiple ways to receive warnings, especially overnight.
What’s Next
What’s next:
St. Patrick’s Day on Monday looks pleasant, with mostly sunny skies and highs in the low 60s.
Tuesday will be partly sunny with highs near 70, but another storm system is expected midweek.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chicagoland residents should be prepared for a wild weather weekend with strong winds, fire risks, and severe storms. It is essential to stay informed and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, especially overnight. By staying aware of the weather conditions and taking necessary precautions, residents can stay safe and enjoy the rest of the weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the forecast for today?
A: Today’s weather will be warm and windy with highs in the low 70s near the lake and upper 70s inland. Winds will pick up through the afternoon, reaching 40-50 mph.
Q: What is the risk of fire?
A: A fire weather watch and warning are in effect due to dry conditions and gusty winds, increasing the risk of fast-spreading fires. Outdoor burning is discouraged.
Q: What can I expect from tonight’s storms?
A: A line of severe thunderstorms is expected between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m. with strong winds, heavy rain, and possible tornadoes.
Q: What is the forecast for the rest of the weekend?
A: Saturday will be mostly sunny and mild with highs in the upper 60s, but with strong winds. Rain and snow are possible late Saturday into Sunday morning, with temperatures dropping to the low to mid-30s overnight.
Q: How can I stay safe during the severe weather?
A: Stay informed and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, especially overnight. Take necessary precautions such as having a plan in place in case of an emergency and staying indoors during severe weather.
