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Chicago Sees Record-Breaking Warmth Before Midweek Storms
Temperatures soared to 65 degrees, shattering a previous record, before rain and thunderstorms move in.
Published on Feb. 17, 2026
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Chicago experienced record-breaking warm temperatures on Monday, with the mercury reaching 65 degrees at O'Hare Airport, surpassing the previous record high of 58 degrees set in 1921. However, the warm weather will be short-lived as rain showers and potential thunderstorms are expected to move in by early Tuesday evening and linger overnight. The warm spell will continue on Wednesday, with highs reaching the mid-60s, before a storm system brings scattered showers and storms on Thursday evening and night. Colder air is then expected to settle in for the end of the week and the weekend.
Why it matters
Chicago's weather patterns have been increasingly volatile in recent years, with extreme temperature swings and severe weather events becoming more common. This latest warm spell followed by a midweek storm system is a prime example of the unpredictable nature of the city's climate, which can have significant impacts on residents, businesses, and infrastructure.
The details
Monday's record-breaking warmth was driven by a strong high-pressure system that brought warm, moist air into the region. However, a cold front moving in from the west will usher in the rain and thunderstorm activity starting on Tuesday evening. While severe weather is not expected, the storms could still bring heavy downpours and gusty winds. The warm spell will continue on Wednesday, with highs reaching the mid-60s, before another storm system arrives on Thursday, bringing more scattered showers and storms.
- On February 16th, temperatures reached 65 degrees at O'Hare Airport, breaking the previous record high of 58 degrees set in 1921.
- Rain showers are expected to move in by early Tuesday evening and linger overnight.
- Wednesday is forecast to be another very warm day, with highs reaching the mid-60s.
- Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop on Thursday evening and night.
The players
O'Hare Airport
The major international airport serving Chicago, where the record-breaking temperature of 65 degrees was recorded on Monday.
What’s next
Weather forecasters will continue to monitor the storm systems and provide updates on the potential impacts to the Chicago area.
The takeaway
Chicago's weather patterns have become increasingly unpredictable, with extreme temperature swings and severe weather events becoming more common. This latest warm spell followed by a midweek storm system is a prime example of the challenges residents and businesses face in adapting to the region's changing climate.
