Fire Weather Watch Issued for Chicago Area

Severe storms also possible on Thursday as temperatures soar above average

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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The National Weather Service has issued a Fire Weather Watch for parts of the Chicago area on Wednesday due to gusty winds and low relative humidity, which could cause any fires that develop to spread quickly. Meanwhile, the region is also bracing for the possibility of severe thunderstorms on Thursday as another storm system approaches.

Why it matters

Fire weather watches are critical alerts that warn of conditions ripe for the rapid spread of wildfires, which can pose a serious threat to public safety and property. The severe storm threat on Thursday is also noteworthy, as strong winds, hail, and even isolated tornadoes could cause damage across the region.

The details

On Wednesday, winds are expected to gust as high as 35-40 mph with low relative humidity, prompting the Fire Weather Watch. Outdoor burning is not recommended. Then on Thursday, a storm system could bring a few strong to severe thunderstorms, especially over the southern half of the Chicago metro area. The Storm Prediction Center has parts of the region under a Marginal to Slight Risk for severe storms.

  • The Fire Weather Watch is in effect from Wednesday morning through Wednesday evening.
  • Severe storms are possible on Thursday as a new storm system approaches the Chicago area.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for issuing weather watches, warnings, and advisories for the United States.

Storm Prediction Center

A branch of the National Weather Service that provides forecasts and analysis of severe weather threats across the country.

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What they’re saying

“Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly.”

— National Weather Service (fox32chicago.com)

“A few strong to severe storms appear possible, especially over the southern half of Chicagoland.”

— National Weather Service (fox32chicago.com)

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the fire weather and severe storm threats throughout the week.

The takeaway

Residents in the Chicago area should remain vigilant for rapidly changing weather conditions and heed any advisories or warnings issued by the National Weather Service. Taking proper precautions can help minimize the risks posed by both fire weather and severe thunderstorms.