May, with 80s predicted each of the remaining three days, is on its way to becoming Chicago’s most prolific 80° producer in 16 years. The month ranks 19th warmest of all Mays on record since 1871. And, by the time the books close on May 2007 at midnight Thursday, the month will have logged 14 days at or above 80°. Only six had occurred through all of May a year ago. That’s less than half as many. Not since the 16 days of 80°-plus temperatures in 1991 has a May logged as many.
This May’s average temperature of 62.7° is running well ahead of the long-term average (57.9°) and is nearly 5 degrees warmer than the same period a year ago.
Last year’s May 1-28 temperatures averaged 57.9°, which coincidentally equalled the long-term May 1-28 average here dating back to 1871.
Yesterday’s 79° high at O’Hare Airport fell short of the 91° on Memorial Day a year ago. However, sunshine was generous and showers were very spotty.
--By Tom Skilling, WGN-TV Chief Meteorologist
WGN-TV Chief Meteorologist Tom Skilling and the WGN Weather Center staff provide daily coverage of weather in the Chicago area.
