Sunday is expected to bring a mix of weather conditions to the Chicago area, with air quality concerns and the threat of severe weather both in the forecast. The National Weather Service has issued an air quality alert for the entire upper Midwest, including Illinois and Indiana, due to smoke from wildfires in western Canada drifting into the region. This smoke has already caused hazy conditions throughout the area, prompting residents with respiratory ailments and preexisting conditions to limit their time outdoors.
The air quality concerns will persist throughout the day, but the threat of severe weather won’t become prominent until later on. The NBC 5 Storm Team predicts a chance of thunderstorms in the southern part of the region in the afternoon, but the main event is expected to develop late Sunday night. A cold front will push toward Illinois, triggering showers and thunderstorms ahead of it.
The Storm Prediction Center has identified a “marginal” risk of severe weather after 8 p.m., with the potential for straight-line winds exceeding 60 miles per hour and some hail, particularly near and south of the Kankakee River. High temperatures on Sunday are forecasted to be in the low-80s.
Looking ahead, Monday will bring drier conditions with temperatures settling into the upper-70s and low-80s, along with lower humidity and clearer air. However, humidity will make a comeback on Wednesday, accompanied by the possibility of showers and thunderstorms. Thursday could be even more humid, but a subsequent dip in temperatures and dew points can be expected.
Residents are advised to stay tuned to the NBC 5 Storm Team for the latest weather updates.
What are the potential air quality concerns in the Chicago area this Sunday, and who may be particularly affected?
Get Ready for a Mix of Weather Conditions in the Chicago Area
This Sunday, the Chicago area can expect a blend of different weather patterns, including air quality concerns and a potential threat of severe weather. The National Weather Service has issued an air quality alert for the upper Midwest, including Illinois and Indiana. The alert is due to smoke from wildfires in western Canada that has drifted into the region, causing hazy conditions. For individuals with respiratory ailments or preexisting conditions, it is advisable to limit outdoor activities.
Concerns regarding air quality will persist throughout the day. However, the threat of severe weather will become more pronounced later on. The NBC 5 Storm Team predicts a chance of thunderstorms in the southern part of the region during the afternoon. However, the main event is expected to occur late Sunday night as a cold front moves towards Illinois, triggering showers and thunderstorms ahead of it.
The Storm Prediction Center has identified a “marginal” risk of severe weather after 8 p.m. There is potential for straight-line winds exceeding 60 miles per hour and the possibility of hail, particularly near and south of the Kankakee River. Expect high temperatures on Sunday to be in the low-80s.
Looking ahead to Monday, drier conditions are anticipated, with temperatures settling into the upper-70s and low-80s. Humidity levels will be lower, and the air will be clearer. However, on Wednesday, humidity is expected to make a comeback, and there is also a possibility of showers and thunderstorms. Thursday could be even more humid, but subsequent temperature and dew point drops can be expected.
Stay tuned to the NBC 5 Storm Team for the latest weather updates. Be prepared for changing conditions and take appropriate measures to ensure your safety.
