A massive storm system is making its way across the United States, bringing snow to the Great Plains and severe thunderstorms to the southern states. This powerful system is expected to have a significant impact on the upper Midwest, with the potential for strong winds, heavy rain, and even tornadoes.
The Storm Prediction Center has issued a “marginal” risk for severe weather in far-eastern Illinois and all of Indiana on Tuesday. This means that gusty winds and heavy rain are possible as the front approaches, which could have potential impacts on the area.
The system is set to arrive on Monday afternoon, bringing a brief warmup to the Chicago area with temperatures reaching the 60s. However, these warmer temperatures will also be accompanied by strong southerly winds, with gusts potentially exceeding 30-35 miles per hour. This could cause some issues as storms begin to form in the late afternoon and evening.
Scattered rain showers are also expected to develop ahead of the front, setting the stage for heavier rainfall later in the evening. The heaviest rain is expected to fall Monday night, with more widespread showers and potentially torrential downpours. This could lead to localized street and creek flooding, with over an inch of rain possible in some areas.
The winds will continue to intensify on Monday night, with gusts reaching 40-45 miles per hour in some locations. As the storm progresses into Tuesday morning, there may be a brief break from the heaviest of the rain, but scattered showers are still possible.
By the afternoon, the severe weather threat will kick into gear with the approaching front. The Storm Prediction Center has identified several counties in Illinois and Indiana as being at a “marginal” risk for severe weather, including Lake, Kane, DuPage, Cook, Kendall, Grundy, Will, and Kankakee counties in Illinois, and all five of the northwest Indiana counties in the NBC Chicago viewing area.
The main threats with these storms will be strong winds and fast-moving storms capable of causing damage. There is also a possibility of a tornado or two, but limited storm depth may impact this potential. Additionally, heavy rain could lead to localized flooding, especially in areas along Interstate 55.
As the evening approaches, the system will start to dry out, but temperatures will also drop, with lows near freezing by late Tuesday night. In the western counties of the NBC Chicago viewing area, there is potential for over two inches of rain, while closer to the city, 1-2 inches of rain is expected before the system finally moves out.
Looking ahead, Wednesday is expected to bring clear skies and cooler temperatures, with highs in the mid-40s. As we head towards the weekend, temperatures will gradually climb, with partly to mostly sunny conditions on both Thursday and Friday. By Friday, temperatures are expected to reach the mid-to-upper 50s, creating pleasant conditions.
However, the threat of rain returns to the forecast for Saturday and Sunday, with chances for showers on both days. Overall, this massive storm system will have a significant impact on the upper Midwest, but the weather is expected to improve as we head towards the weekend. Stay safe and stay informed about any potential severe weather in your area.
