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Chicago Braces for More Severe Weather This Week
Chances for rain, storms, and potential flooding continue through the weekend.
Apr. 1, 2026 at 11:37am
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The Chicago area is facing an extended period of unsettled weather, with daily chances for rain, thunderstorms, and even severe weather through the rest of the week and into the weekend. Multiple severe thunderstorm watches and warnings were issued on Tuesday, leading to ground stops at O'Hare and Midway Airports. The forecast calls for waves of showers and storms, some of which could be severe, particularly on Thursday afternoon and evening.
Why it matters
Severe weather can pose significant risks to public safety, transportation, and infrastructure in the Chicago region. The potential for heavy rainfall also raises concerns about localized flooding, which can disrupt daily life and cause property damage. Residents and businesses need to stay vigilant and prepared for the changing weather conditions.
The details
According to NBC 5 Storm Team Meteorologist Alicia Roman, the heaviest rain on Wednesday morning was staying south of Kankakee, but more widespread showers and storms were expected to move in by Wednesday evening and continue through Thursday morning. On Thursday, scattered showers and storms were possible throughout the day, with the greatest threat of severe weather during the afternoon and evening hours. The National Weather Service warned that all severe hazards, including hail and gusty winds, would be possible, along with the potential for heavy rainfall and localized flooding.
- Early Wednesday morning, rain was reported across LaSalle, Will, and Kankakee Counties in Illinois and into northwest Indiana.
- By 10 p.m. on Wednesday, widespread rain was expected to move in and last through Thursday morning.
- Storm chances were forecast to return around 3 p.m. on Thursday and continue through the evening.
The players
Alicia Roman
NBC 5 Storm Team Meteorologist.
National Weather Service
The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing severe weather alerts.
What they’re saying
“Some of our northern counties won't see a lick of rain today, at least daytime hours.”
— Alicia Roman, NBC 5 Storm Team Meteorologist
“All severe hazards will be possible, along with heavy rainfall which could lead to localized flooding.”
— National Weather Service
What’s next
The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and issue any necessary severe weather watches, warnings, or advisories for the Chicago area.
The takeaway
Residents and businesses in the Chicago region should stay vigilant and prepared for the changing weather conditions, as the potential for severe storms, heavy rainfall, and localized flooding poses risks to public safety and daily operations. Monitoring local weather forecasts and heeding any warnings or advisories will be crucial in the coming days.
