There has been a dearth of 80-degree days in Chicago this year, with only two on the
books as compared to 13 by this time last year. However, all that is about to change as
gusty southerly winds send temperatures soaring into the lower 80s across the
metropolitan area Sunday -- just in time for the Memorial Day holiday.
After a week dominated by chilly northeast winds and sub-60 degree highs, the city is
about to enjoy a warm period well suited for outdoor activities. A storm system slowly
approaching from the Plains will feed the warmth along with increasing humidity,
setting the stage for gusty, possibly severe thunderstorms on Memorial Day, though a
few storms could arrive as early as Sunday evening.
Highs should top out around 80 degrees again on Memorial Day, though readings will
drop in the afternoon after the rain arrives.
BRIEF MIDWEEK COOLDOWN, THEN ANOTHER WARM WEEKEND
Cooler weather will settle in midweek with readings in the 60s as northeast winds
return. However, temperatures will rebound by next weekend as southerly winds bring
another round of temperatures in the 80s and the possibility of showers and
thunderstorms.
--By Steve Kahn, WGN Weather Center Meteorologist
