Chicago Weather Forecast: What to Expect This Weekend

CHICAGO – Chicago will warm into the upper 50s today, but strong winds and incoming rain tonight will lead to a cooler, unsettled weekend.

Chicago Weather Forecast: A Detailed Look

What we know:

We will have no snow today. Thank goodness. This is a welcome relief for many Chicagoans who are eager to put the cold winter months behind them.

We’ll have a nice bump in temperatures with highs reaching the upper 50s this afternoon. It will be rather windy with gusts at times to more than 30 mph. Skies will become cloudy late in the day as a storm system approaches, which will bring showers to the area by tonight.

The weekend will start with some sunshine on Saturday, but it will be a few degrees cooler than normal. Highs will be in the mid 40s. Clouds will thicken up Saturday night and much of Sunday will have showers in the area, but at least temperatures will rise into the low 50s.

Temperatures most of next week will run a few degrees cooler than normal with no significant storm systems in sight. This means that Chicagoans can expect a relatively calm and quiet week, weather-wise.

Windy March: A Look at the Numbers

By the numbers:

March is typically a windy month, but this year’s edition has been exceptional. Fourteen of the 20 days so far have had winds with 30+ mph peak gusts and 5 days have had peak gusts of 40+ mph at O`Hare. Today will certainly have 30+ mph gusts there with a fairly high chance of some 40+ mph winds.

This windiness is not only a nuisance, but it can also have a significant impact on daily life. From making it difficult to walk or drive, to causing power outages and property damage, strong winds can be a major concern.

Why is March So Windy?

There are several reasons why March is typically a windy month. One reason is that it is a time of transition from winter to spring, and this can lead to a clash of air masses and a increase in wind speeds.

Another reason is that the jet stream, a fast-moving band of air that can bring strong winds, is often located over the Midwest during the month of March. This can lead to an increase in wind speeds and a higher chance of strong gusts.

How to Prepare for Windy Weather

There are several steps that Chicagoans can take to prepare for windy weather. One of the most important things is to make sure that outdoor items, such as patio furniture and trash cans, are secure and won’t become projectiles in strong winds.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to have a plan in place in case of a power! outage, such as having flashlights and batteries on hand. It’s also a good idea to stay indoors during strong winds, and to avoid driving or walking unless absolutely necessary.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Chicago weather forecast is looking cool and unsettled for the weekend, with strong winds and incoming rain tonight. While March is typically a windy month, this year’s edition has been exceptional, with 14 of the 20 days so far having winds with 30+ mph peak gusts.

By understanding the reasons behind the windiness and taking steps to prepare, Chicagoans can stay safe and comfortable during this time. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just visiting, it’s always a good idea to stay informed about the weather and to be prepared for any conditions that may arise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the weather forecast for Chicago this weekend?

A: The weather forecast for Chicago this weekend is looking cool and unsettled, with strong winds and incoming rain tonight. Highs will be in the mid 40s on Saturday, with clouds thickening up on Saturday night and showers in the area on Sunday.

Q: Why is March so windy in Chicago?

A: March is typically a windy month in Chicago due to the transition from winter to spring, which can lead to a clash of air masses and an increase in wind speeds. The jet stream, a fast-moving band of air that can bring strong winds, is also often located over the Midwest during the month of March.

Q: How can I prepare for windy weather in Chicago?

A: To prepare for windy weather in Chicago, make sure that outdoor items are secure, have a plan in place in case of a power outage, and stay indoors during strong winds. It’s also a good idea to avoid driving or walking unless absolutely necessary.

Q: Will it snow in Chicago this weekend?

A: No, there is no snow in the forecast for Chicago this weekend. However, it will be cooler and more unsettled than usual, with strong winds and incoming rain tonight.