Gusty Winds And Spotty Showers Expected In Chicago Tonight

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Chicago is bracing for a blustery Sunday with gusty winds up to 30 mph and the potential for scattered showers overnight. A Small Craft Advisory remains in effect for the area's nearshore waters, and temperatures are expected to dip below freezing early next week.

Why it matters

Gusty winds and unsettled weather can disrupt travel, outdoor activities, and boating plans in the Chicago area. The late-season chill also raises concerns about potential impacts on vulnerable populations and early spring vegetation.

The details

Winds will hold from the west-northwest around 10-20 mph through the afternoon, with gusts pushing up to about 30 mph, particularly along the lakefront and over exposed bridges. A Small Craft Advisory remains in effect for Illinois and Indiana nearshore waters through 10 a.m. Sunday, so smaller boats are advised to stay in port or close to shelter. A weak front swinging through late Sunday night could squeeze out a few scattered showers, mainly between 11 p.m. Sunday and 4 a.m. Monday, though most neighborhoods will stay dry.

• A Small Craft Advisory is in effect for Illinois and Indiana nearshore waters through 10 a.m. Sunday, April 5.
• Scattered showers are possible late Sunday night, April 5, between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m. Monday, April 6.

What’s next

Temperatures are expected to dip below freezing early next week, with highs only reaching the 30s on Tuesday. Forecasters are also monitoring a slight chance of a rain/snow mix Tuesday night if the system trends colder.