As the summer season comes to an end, the Chicago area is still experiencing warm and dry conditions, with temperatures remaining above average for another day. According to the NBC 5 Storm Team, this trend is expected to continue for the next few days, with highs reaching the upper 80s.
Meteorologist Alicia Roman from NBC 5 stated that the warm weather will persist throughout Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. In fact, the extended forecast for Chicago shows a high chance of above-average temperatures for the week of September 26th to October 2nd.
Typically, the average high for this time of year ranges between 72 and 69 degrees. However, with the current weather pattern, temperatures are expected to remain on the warmer side. Roman also mentioned that October usually brings a sudden drop in temperature, but for now, we can enjoy the warm September days.
While cooler temperatures are expected to move in next week, they will still be on the warmer side, although they will dip out of the 80s. Along with the drop in temperature, rain and storms are also expected to return. The NBC 5 Storm Team has reported a chance of showers and storms in Chicago’s northern and western counties around 3 a.m. on Friday. These isolated showers and storms may linger until 6 or 7 a.m. before moving into the city.
Friday afternoon may also see some spotty rain in southern counties, but most areas are expected to remain dry. Saturday, on the other hand, is expected to be a beautiful day with plenty of sunshine.
However, Sunday will bring widespread rain, starting around 8 a.m. and possibly developing into thunderstorms in the afternoon. This rain is much needed and beneficial for the Chicago area, as last week, the U.S. Drought Monitor declared most of the region as “abnormally dry” due to low levels of rainfall.
The warm temperatures and lack of rain have also started to impact the fall colors and the changing of leaves. According to Dr. Christy Rollinson from the Morton Arboretum, the warmer weather will delay the fall foliage, as it affects the moisture in the soil. Drought conditions are a combination of the amount of water available for plants and how much they need, which is also influenced by the temperature.
Despite the delay in fall colors, the warm weather is still a great opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities and soak up the last bit of summer. So, let’s make the most of these warm days and appreciate the beauty of nature around us.
In addition to the warm temperatures, the Chicago area has also been blessed with plenty of sunshine. This has made it a perfect time to explore the city and its many attractions. From outdoor festivals to picnics in the park, there is no shortage of things to do in Chicago during this time of year.
As we bid farewell to summer and welcome the fall season, let’s embrace the warm weather and make the most of it. Whether it’s spending time with family and friends, or simply taking a walk in the park, let’s enjoy these last few days of summer before the cooler temperatures set in.
So, let’s all take advantage of the warm and dry conditions in the Chicago area and make some unforgettable memories. And don’t forget to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen while enjoying the outdoors. Cheers to a beautiful end to summer and a warm start to fall!
