Severe Storms, Summerlike Heat Threaten Chicago This Week

Thunderstorm risk peaks Tuesday with potential for damaging winds, hail, and heavy rain.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:34am

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of gray, blue, and gold, depicting a turbulent, stormy sky filled with dramatic, swirling clouds that dwarf a small city in the distance, conveying the overwhelming scale and power of extreme weather.The impending severe weather threat casts an ominous shadow over the Chicago skyline, a reminder of nature's raw power.Chicago Today

Unseasonably warm temperatures in the 70s and 80s will continue through Friday across the Chicago area, accompanied by a daily chance of thunderstorms. The greatest severe weather threat is expected on Tuesday night, with an 'enhanced risk' for damaging winds, large hail, and heavy rainfall. Cooler air and additional rain chances arrive this weekend.

Why it matters

Severe thunderstorms can cause significant property damage, power outages, and pose a threat to public safety. The summerlike heat and humidity also increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for vulnerable populations. Residents need to be prepared to take shelter and monitor weather conditions closely.

The details

Today through Friday, high temperatures will range from the low to mid 70s up to the mid 80s, well above normal for this time of year. The warmest day is expected to be Tuesday, with highs potentially reaching the upper 80s. Each day also brings a chance of thunderstorms, with the greatest severe weather risk on Tuesday night. The National Weather Service has issued an 'enhanced risk' for that period, meaning there is a heightened potential for damaging winds, large hail, and heavy rainfall. While the timing may still shift, the storms are currently expected to arrive after dark on Tuesday. Additional strong to severe storms are also possible on Wednesday, though the risk is slightly lower than Tuesday.

  • Temperatures will reach the 70s and 80s each day from today through Friday.
  • The highest severe weather threat is expected on Tuesday night.
  • A cold front will arrive on Friday night, bringing cooler temperatures and additional rain chances for the weekend.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for issuing weather forecasts and warnings for the United States.

Mike Caplan

A meteorologist reporting on the weather conditions and severe storm threat for the Chicago area.

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What they’re saying

“Be 'Weather Ready' today, tomorrow and Wednesday and particularly so tomorrow.”

— Mike Caplan, Meteorologist

What’s next

Residents should closely monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to take shelter if severe storms develop, especially on Tuesday night. The National Weather Service will continue to provide updates on the timing and intensity of the storms as the week progresses.

The takeaway

This early-season heat wave and severe storm threat is a reminder for Chicago-area residents to stay vigilant about weather conditions and have a plan in place to protect themselves and their property. While severe storms can be disruptive, being prepared can help minimize the impacts.