Thunderstorms drenched Downstate Illinois on Thursday and provide a guide on just
how sporadic and thundery rains may sweep the Chicago area from time to time over
the coming days -- hitting hard and fast but limited at any given time to specific
sections of the metro area. The coming rains are likely to include possible downpours
over southern sections of the metro area as Hurricane Ike's remnants sweep across the
Midwest on Sunday into Sunday night. Computer estimates of Chicago's rainfall in the
next three days range from 2 to 4 inches -- but a few areas could get hit by heavier
rains. What's important to underscore as outdoor weekend planning takes place is that
the rains here will be separated by extended dry periods. Moisture content of the
atmosphere exceeds 2 inches Friday night into Saturday, suggesting any thunderstorms
that erupt could include local downpours. Petersburg, Ill., northwest of Springfield, was
hit by 3.02 inches of rain Thursday and nearby Greenview recorded 2.99 inches
underscoring the potential of any subsequent downpours in coming days.
GALVESTON COASTAL RESIDENTS TOLD TO LEAVE OR PERISH AS HURRICANE IKE
THREATENS MONSTER STORM SURGE.
--Tom Skilling, Chief Meteorologist, WGN-TV/Chicago Tribune
