Chicagoland’s Sudden Heat Wave
We certainly have flipped the script on June 2025 for Chicagoland. We’ve been baking in some intense heat this weekend. Yesterday made it to 94 degrees– but factoring the humidity– we had heat index temps in the 100-110 range across the metro.
It’s certainly a stark contrast from the start of June which was cloudy, cool and a bit gloomy. But, we’re sure making up for it with afternoon temps getting above average almost every day this past week. Our high temperature yesterday of 94 degrees at O’Hare ties for our warmest day of the year so far.
Record-Breaking Temperatures
We broke temperature records yesterday morning though for how warm it was. O’Hare was 78 degrees for a morning low on Saturday. The previous warmest morning for June 21st was 74 set back more than a hundred years ago in 1923. Midway Int’l also broke a high minimum temp record yesterday morning with a low temp of 77 degrees. The previous warmest low for June 21st was 75, set back in 2002.
We’re starting to rack up those days above 80 and 90. An average June sees about five days of 90 or warmer. And today might break another record– or at least tie it. Today the number to beat in the record books for a high temp at O’Hare is 97 degrees– and it looks like we’ll be pretty close this afternoon.
Warming Water Temperatures
Water temps in the Great Lakes are also warming, albeit water warms far more slowly than air. We’re solidly in the 60s in southern Lake Michigan. While that’s swimmable– especially with air temps in the 90s– it is still cold enough to still sap the strength of even the strongest of swimmers.
Rainfall and Drought Conditions
Our soaking rains mid-week finally have us almost caught up on rainfall for the month. Though, since January 1st we’re actually down five inches of precipitation. Primarily due to our winter’s lack of snowfall.
This week’s Drought Monitor put out by the USDA on Thursdays has us still as having ‘moderate’ drought conditions.
Future Weather Outlook
We’re going to stay pretty warm beyond this weekend. We’ll stay at least 3-5 degrees above average just about every day of this work week– even as the dome of heat parked over the Central U.S. moves off to the east.
While the days get shorter in July, to the tune of 43 minutes over the whole month, it’s on average our warmest month of the year in Chicagoland. And it looks like some of this warmth will continue through the Independence Day holiday for much of the Great Lakes region.
The average high temp is mid 80s for the whole month. The average low is in the mid 60s. Hopefully you’re a fan of summer warmth, because it looks to stick around awhile.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the sudden heat wave in Chicagoland has brought record-breaking temperatures and warm weather. While the water temperatures in the Great Lakes are warming, they still pose a risk to swimmers. The rainfall has helped to alleviate some of the drought conditions, but more is needed to fully recover. As we move into the summer months, it’s likely that the warm weather will continue, making it a great time to enjoy the outdoors.
FAQs
Q: What is the current temperature in Chicagoland?
A: The current temperature in Chicagoland is in the mid 90s, with a heat index of over 100 degrees.
Q: How long will the heat wave last?
A: The heat wave is expected to continue through the weekend and into the work week, with temperatures remaining above average.
Q: Are the Great Lakes warm enough for swimming?
A: While the water temperatures in the Great Lakes are warming, they are still cold enough to pose a risk to swimmers. It’s recommended to exercise caution when swimming in the lakes.
Q: What is the current drought condition in Chicagoland?
A: The current drought condition in Chicagoland is moderate, according to the USDA’s Drought Monitor.
Q: Will the warm weather continue into July?
A: Yes, it’s likely that the warm weather will continue into July, making it a great time to enjoy the outdoors.
