The Chicago area is going to see some topsy-turvy weather in the coming days, with thunderstorms and scorching temperatures on Thursday and a dramatic cool down in the days that follow.
According to forecast models, the area will get a taste of summertime weather on Thursday, with temperatures surging into the upper 80s and humidity rising, with dew points topping 60 degrees in most areas.
On Thursday evening, a cold front will begin to move toward the area, but it will rapidly become rainy, with showers and thunderstorms developing along the front.
While the Storm Prediction Center is just forecasting thunderstorms, strong-to-severe storms may develop in conjunction with the system before it moves out of the area early Friday morning.
According to forecast models, the projected cooldown will begin as that front passes through, with Friday’s maximum temperature likely arriving shortly after midnight as temperatures drop.
Daytime temperatures. Friday’s high will most likely be in the 60s, with lows in the 40s overnight and Saturday.
Another item to watch for on Friday and Saturday is the emergence of lake-effect rain showers. With unusually cold air aloft and warm lake waters, rain could fall in northwest Indiana or near the shores of Lake Michigan in Illinois, allowing for brief showers.
According to forecast models, lake-effect rains could last into Saturday, as might high waves on Lake Michigan caused by northerly winds.
Saturday’s high temperatures will feel nearly fall-like, rising barely into the mid-60s across the area. As soon as the mild temperatures arrive, they are predicted to reverse, with readings rising into the low-70s and then back into the 80s for the majority of the work week.
Rain is not forecast this week, resulting in a lovely weather pattern that is expected to last for days.
Stay tuned to the NBC 5 Storm Team for the most up-to-date weather information.