Strong Storms Possible and Then Cooler Temps: Weekend Weather

After a stretch of hot and humid weather, rain and thunderstorms are in the forecast for Friday and Saturday.

Some scattered storms are possible Friday afternoon, but there is an increased likelihood for thunderstorms Friday night. Those storms could bring quarter-sized hail and wind speeds in excess of 60 mph, according to the National Weather Service.

On Saturday, thunderstorms are expected across the Chicago area. The storms will be capable of producing heavy rainfall, along with a small possibility of some strong wind gusts, according to the National Weather Service. Localized flooding is also possible.

Following the passage of a strong cold front on Saturday, much cooler conditions are expected Sunday and Monday with temperatures expected to drop down into the 70s, according to the National Weather Service. Temps will reach into the upper 80s on Friday and lower 80s on Saturday. The maximum heat index on Friday could reach between 92 to 97 degrees.

Here is a detailed look at the Chicago-area forecast for the coming days:

• Friday: Partly sunny. Numerous showers and thunderstorms in the morning, especially on the north side...then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs in the upper 80s. Southwest winds 5 to 10 mph...briefly shifting northwest this morning. Chance of precipitation 70 percent.
• Friday night: Partly cloudy with a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Lows in the upper 60s. South winds 5 to 10 mph.
• Saturday: Showers and thunderstorms. Highs around 80. South winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of precipitation 80 percent.
• Saturday Night: Partly cloudy. Lows in the lower 60s. West winds 10 to 20 mph.
• Sunday: Partly cloudy. A 20 percent chance of light showers in the afternoon. Highs in the mid 70s. West winds 10 to 20 mph.
• Sunday Night: Partly cloudy in the evening then becoming mostly clear. Lows in the mid 50s in the suburbs...but in the upper 50s downtown.
• Monday: Sunny. Highs in the upper 70s.
• Monday Night: Clear. Lows in the lower 60s.

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