Chicago Weather Update: Weekend Heat Pushes Temperatures Toward 90 Degrees
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – A stretch of summer-like heat is set to take hold across the Chicago area through the weekend, with temperatures climbing into the upper 80s and even touching 90 degrees by Saturday. The National Weather Service reports that while skies will stay mostly dry, residents should be prepared for hot afternoons and a slim chance of an isolated storm.
Midweek Warm-Up Begins
The heat won’t arrive all at once. Wednesday will remain relatively mild with partly cloudy skies and highs ranging between 76 and 82 degrees. But starting Thursday, Chicago begins to warm noticeably, with highs projected in the low to mid-80s across much of the metro area. Areas close to Lake Michigan will feel slightly cooler thanks to the persistent lake breeze.
Friday continues the warming trend, bringing mostly sunny skies and highs climbing into the mid-to-upper 80s. With humidity building gradually, outdoor plans should remain comfortable, though forecasters advise taking standard hot-weather precautions.
Weekend Heat Peaks Across Northern Illinois
Saturday is expected to be the hottest day in this stretch. Forecasts show widespread highs between 87 and 91 degrees across northern Illinois, with only a 20% chance of an isolated shower or thunderstorm in the evening. For most of the region, dry conditions will prevail.
Sunday mirrors Saturday’s setup, with highs again reaching the mid to upper 80s. Temperatures will remain a touch cooler near the lakefront, but inland neighborhoods will feel the brunt of the summer heat. With the weekend dominated by dry skies, most outdoor events and gatherings are expected to go on uninterrupted.
Five-Day Forecast Snapshot
- Wednesday: Partly cloudy, highs 76–82, lows 55–63
- Thursday: Sunny, highs 80–85, lows 55–64
- Friday: Mostly sunny, highs 85–89, lows 61–68
- Saturday: Hot with slight storm chance (20%), highs 87–91, lows 63–68
- Sunday: Partly cloudy, highs 84–90, lows 62–68
Staying Safe in the Heat
While this September heatwave brings plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun, it’s important for Chicago residents to take precautions. Officials recommend staying hydrated, wearing light clothing, and limiting strenuous activity during the peak afternoon hours. Those planning to attend concerts, festivals, or outdoor gatherings this weekend should prepare for hot conditions and seek shade when possible.
Looking ahead, forecasters note that more seasonal conditions could return next week, providing a cooldown after this late burst of summer.
As the city heats up, stay tuned to ChicagoMusicGuide.com for the latest updates on weather, music festivals, and events happening across the region.