Severe Storm Threat Looms Over Warm, Windy Chicago Weekend

Multiple days of severe weather expected in the region as warm, humid conditions take hold.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:34pm

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a dramatic, stormy sky over the Chicago skyline. The city's iconic buildings are dwarfed by the overwhelming scale of the weather, conveying the sublime power of nature.The looming threat of severe storms casts an ominous shadow over the Chicago skyline, underscoring the region's vulnerability to the overwhelming forces of nature.Chicago Today

The Chicago area is bracing for multiple rounds of severe storms this week, with the threat of isolated tornadoes, heavy rain, and gusty winds. After a warm and windy Sunday, the region faces a heightened risk of severe weather on Monday and Tuesday, with the entire area under a 'slight' risk according to the Storm Prediction Center.

Why it matters

Severe storms can cause significant damage to property and infrastructure, disrupt transportation, and pose a threat to public safety. The Chicago region is no stranger to powerful weather systems, and residents will need to stay vigilant and prepared as this potentially dangerous pattern unfolds.

The details

On Sunday, the Chicago area will see warm temperatures in the low 80s and wind gusts over 30 mph. While severe weather is not expected, showers and thunderstorms could still produce heavy downpours and strong winds. The threat of severe storms increases on Monday, especially along the Wisconsin-Illinois border, where the region is at a 'slight' risk. The main threats will be damaging winds, heavy rain, and hail. Tuesday is expected to bring the most significant severe weather, with the entire Chicago area under a 'slight' risk and all severe threats, including isolated tornadoes, on the table.

  • On Sunday, April 13, 2026, the Chicago area will see warm temperatures and windy conditions.
  • On Monday, April 14, 2026, the region faces a 'slight' risk of severe storms, especially along the Wisconsin-Illinois border.
  • On Tuesday, April 15, 2026, the entire Chicago area will be under a 'slight' risk of severe weather, with the threat of isolated tornadoes, heavy rain, and damaging winds.

The players

Storm Prediction Center

A branch of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that provides forecasts and assessments of severe weather threats across the United States.

NBC 5 Storm Team

The weather forecasting team for NBC's Chicago affiliate, providing real-time updates and alerts to local residents.

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What they’re saying

“The Chicago area could see multiple rounds of severe weather this week as warm and humid weather is expected to take hold in the region.”

— NBC Storm Team

What’s next

Residents should closely monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to take shelter if severe storms are imminent. The NBC 5 Storm Team will continue to provide real-time updates and alerts as the situation develops.

The takeaway

This severe weather pattern highlights the importance of being prepared for extreme weather events in the Chicago area. Residents should stay informed, have a plan in place, and heed all warnings and advisories issued by local authorities and weather experts.