'Flash Drought' Could Hit Due To Dry Conditions In Chicago Area

ILLINOIS — As dry conditions continue for the next several days, a "flash drought" appears to be developing across the state, especially in northeastern Illinois, according to the National Weather Service Chicago.

The "persistent dry pattern" could continue into early June, and the weather service is advising residents to be careful with open flames during this Memorial Day holiday weekend.

If you're looking to spend time outdoors this holiday weekend, it will be dry and sunny, with a high of 80 on Saturday, a high of 84 on Sunday and a high of 87 on Monday.

A persistent dry pattern may continue into early June. As a result, a flash drought appears to be developing especially in northeastern Illinois where soaking rain hasn’t occurred since early April. Be careful with open flames during the holiday weekend! #ILwx #INwx pic.twitter.com/FCeKRho0AZ
— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) May 23, 2023

The last day with greater than half an inch of rainfall was almost two months ago, on April 4, the weather service said.

The total rainfall total in Chicago this month is .42 inches. If no more rain falls this month, and there is none current in the forecast, then it will be the second-driest May on record, according to the weather service.

In addition to the dry conditions, temperatures are expected to heat up next week, possibly into the 90s.

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