If you’re heading out Friday night, bring an umbrella—and maybe a life raft! A major storm system is set to drench Chicago with heavy rain Friday night before whipping up strong, gusty winds for the weekend. With a 100% chance of rain, there’s no escaping the downpours, and flooding could become an issue in some areas.
But don’t get too comfortable once the rain stops—powerful winds will take over on Saturday and Sunday, with gusts up to 40 mph. If you have outdoor plans, be prepared for tree limbs to come down, possible power outages, and wind chills making it feel much colder than the thermometer suggests.
This weekend’s weather will be anything but calm, so here’s what you need to know before stepping outside.
Breaking Down the Storm: What to Expect
Friday Night – The Rain Hits Hard:
- A 100% chance of steady, soaking rain will move into the city by Friday evening.
- Some areas could see over an inch of rainfall, leading to ponding on roads and potential flooding in low-lying areas.
- Driving conditions will be hazardous, especially on highways and overpasses where water tends to accumulate.
Saturday – The Winds Take Over:
- The rain will taper off by morning, but don’t let your guard down.
- Strong winds will rapidly intensify, with sustained speeds of 20-30 mph and gusts near 40 mph.
- These conditions could knock down tree limbs, cause minor property damage, and lead to scattered power outages.
Temperature Drop – From Warm to Chilly Fast:
- Friday will feel unseasonably warm, with highs in the mid-to-upper 60s°F (around 19°C).
- By Sunday, temperatures will struggle to reach the low 40s°F (around 5°C), making for a cold, blustery weekend.
- Wind chills will make it feel even colder than the actual temperature, so bundle up if you’re heading outside.
How This Weather Will Impact You
Tough Travel Conditions:
- Friday night’s downpours will make roads slick and dangerous, especially with reduced visibility from heavy rain.
- Wind gusts on Saturday and Sunday could push vehicles around, particularly high-profile vehicles like trucks and SUVs.
- Flights at O’Hare and Midway could see delays due to strong winds—check your flight status before heading to the airport.
Power Outages Possible:
- Strong winds could bring down power lines, leading to scattered outages across the region.
- Charge your devices ahead of time, and have backup batteries or flashlights ready.
Falling Branches & Outdoor Hazards:
- Tree limbs and loose objects could become projectiles in strong gusts.
- Secure patio furniture, decorations, and trash bins to prevent damage or flying debris.
Outdoor Plans? Think Again!
- If you’re planning on being outside this weekend, dress in layers!
- Wind chills will make it feel much colder, and any lingering dampness from Friday’s rain will add to the discomfort.
How to Stay Safe & Prepared
Don’t Ignore Flooded Roads: If you see standing water on the road, don’t drive through it—it only takes a few inches of water to stall a car.
Secure Loose Objects: Anything that can be blown away—patio furniture, holiday decorations, even lightweight signs—should be brought inside or tied down.
Prepare for Sudden Temperature Drops: The mild Friday temperatures won’t last long, so have a jacket or coat ready for the weekend chill.
Check for Travel Delays: If you have flights or road trips planned, check ahead for any delays or hazardous conditions.
Stay Weather Aware: Keep an eye on local forecasts and alerts, as conditions could change rapidly.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Chicago’s Weather?
This storm system will move out by late Sunday, but don’t expect warm spring weather just yet. Cooler temperatures will stick around next week, with highs staying in the low 40s°F. The good news? Drier weather is expected after the weekend, with no major storms on the horizon—for now.
Final Thoughts
Chicago’s weather is about to take a wild turn, with heavy rain, gusty winds, and falling temperatures all happening in the span of 48 hours. If you’re heading out Friday night, bring your rain gear. If you’re making weekend plans, brace for strong winds and much colder conditions.
