Chicago, Illinois – A dangerous heat wave will grip Illinois on Thursday, July 24, with heat indices soaring above 105°F in Cook County. Severe thunderstorms are also expected to hit the area during the evening commute, bringing the risk of damaging winds and torrential rainfall.
Heat Advisory in Effect for Cook County
The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for Central, North, and South Cook County, including Chicago, from 10 a.m. Wednesday to 10 p.m. Thursday. Thursday’s high temperatures will peak near 97°F, with heat indices reaching 107°F due to high humidity. The combination of scorching heat and humidity will increase the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Severe Storms Expected Thursday Afternoon
Thunderstorms are expected to develop after 1 p.m. Thursday, with some storms potentially bringing torrential rainfall and damaging wind gusts. Storm activity will intensify after 4 p.m., particularly along the Wisconsin border, and will expand southward. Afternoon commuters on I-290 and Lake Shore Drive may experience delays due to reduced visibility and wet roads.
Stay Safe During the Heat and Storms
As the heat and storms roll in, Chicago residents are urged to:
Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and cool.
Use public cooling centers if you don’t have access to air conditioning. Chicagoans can call 311 for information on cooling centers or shelter.
Keep an eye on weather alerts, as more warnings may be issued if storms intensify.
Never leave children or pets in parked cars, as temperatures inside can quickly become life-threatening.
Stormy Weekend Ahead
Looking ahead to the weekend, rain chances remain high, with storms likely continuing through Saturday. Flash flooding is possible in low-lying areas, so residents should be prepared for potential disruptions. The weekend will remain muggy, with highs in the mid-80s, and off-and-on storms throughout. However, brief dry breaks are expected on Sunday.
5-Day Forecast for Chicago, IL (July 24–July 29)
Thursday, July 24: High 97°F, Heat Index 107°F, thunderstorms after 1 p.m.
Friday, July 25: High 90°F, 60% chance of rain and thunderstorms.
Saturday, July 26: High 85°F, thunderstorms with flash flooding possible.
Sunday, July 27: Mostly sunny, high near 84°F, low near 72°F.
Monday, July 28: Partly cloudy, high 84°F, evening storms possible.
Tuesday, July 29: Cooler, high 77°F, drier air moving in.
Thursday, July 24, will be a day of extreme heat and severe weather in Illinois. With temperatures near 97°F and heat indices reaching 107°F, combined with the risk of severe thunderstorms later in the day, residents are urged to stay indoors and avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
Cooling centers are open in Chicago for those in need of relief from the heat. Stay weather-aware and be prepared for travel disruptions due to storms.
