Gusty storms could impact the Thursday morning commute across the Chicago area, the NBC 5 Storm Team warned, with heavy downpours, flashes of lightning, and even small hail. As of 5 a.m. Thursday, moderate rain and flashes of lightning were recorded in parts of Cook and DeKalb County, according to NBC 5 Meteorologist Alicia Roman. The rain was expected to spread east and continue through the mid-morning hours.
While the storms were non-severe, Roman cautioned that they could be gusty and strong, potentially causing issues on the roads. “They are non-severe storms, but they could pack a punch,” Roman said, adding that the morning commute could be affected. “You could encounter pockets of heavy downpours. It’s very scattered.”
NBC 5 Traffic reporter Kye Martin reported minor crashes and backups on area roadways. By 8 a.m., storms were expected to stretch from Waukegan to Chicago’s southern counties. Storms were also expected to move into Northwest Indiana by around 10 a.m., but scattered showers were likely to remain in the Chicago forecast through the evening, Roman said.
In addition to the potential for storms, cooler temperatures were also on tap for Thursday, with highs in the mid-50s to mid-60s. However, Friday was expected to be a drier day, with more sunshine and milder temperatures in the mid-60s. Between 9 p.m. and 11 p.m., scattered showers were expected to move in, and isolated thunderstorms were possible, Roman said.
Looking ahead to the weekend, Saturday could see some spotty showers in the afternoon, with temperatures remaining in the mid-60s. The forecast for Mother’s Day Sunday looks to be dry, partly sunny, and in the mid-70s, according to Roman. However, daily chances for rain will return to the forecast beginning Monday.
“Just get used to this weather pattern for the next couple of days,” Roman advised, referring to the continuing wet weather. “There will be many dry times in between the rain, so it’s not a complete washout.”
According to the NBC 5 Storm Team, May is typically Chicago’s rainiest month of the year, with an average rainfall of 4.49 inches. The next rainiest month of the year is typically August, with an average of 4.25 inches of rainfall, Roman said.
Despite the potential for storms and rain, there is still plenty to look forward to in the coming days. With summer just around the corner, Chicagoans can enjoy longer days as the sun sets past 8 p.m. beginning this week. And while severe weather can be destructive, it can also bring moments of beauty, as seen in the stunning sunsets that often follow a storm.
In addition, the city is gearing up for Mother’s Day, with many restaurants and businesses offering special deals and events to celebrate the special women in our lives. And with the warmer temperatures and sunshine on Sunday, it’s the perfect day to spend time with family and show appreciation for all that mothers do.
So while the weather may not be ideal, there is still plenty to be grateful for and look forward to in the coming days. And as always, Chicagoans are resilient and know how to make the best of any situation. So grab your umbrella and raincoat, and don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits.
