Severe Weather Threats and Record Heat Hit Chicago: What You Need to Know

Source: FOX 32 Chicago

Record Heat and Powerful Storms Are Descending on Chicago

On Thursday, May 15, 2025, the Chicago area is gearing up for a significant weather event as meteorologists report a week-long severe weather threat intensifying across the Midwest. With cities like Chicago and Milwaukee taking center stage, the community braces itself for dangerously powerful storms capable of producing hurricane-force winds, baseball-sized hail, and exceptionally strong tornadoes.

Current Weather Alerts and Warnings in Chicago

A Tornado Watch has been issued for McHenry County until 10 p.m. on Thursday, amplifying concerns among residents. With temperatures soaring into the upper 80s and low 90s, it is expected to be the hottest day of the week in Chicago, challenging the record high of 91 degrees set back in 1962.

The National Weather Service and NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center have categorized the severity of upcoming storms, placing over 23 million individuals—including those in Chicago and surrounding areas—under a Level 3 enhanced risk on the five-point severe thunderstorm scale.

What to Expect: Storm Development and Impacts

Storms are anticipated to start developing by mid-afternoon as a cold front clashes with deep Gulf moisture and atmospheric instability, creating an environment ripe for severe weather. The forecast suggests that supercell thunderstorms may form first, leading into a line of storms sweeping northeast throughout the evening.

Key impacts of these storms may include:

• Hail exceeding 2 inches in diameter
• Wind gusts surpassing 75 mph
• Tornadoes potentially rated EF-2 or stronger

The Timeline for Severe Weather in Chicago

As per the timeline released by meteorologists, residents can expect severe storms to hit during the afternoon and continue through the evening. Key times to monitor include:

• Mid-afternoon: Development of supercell storms
• Evening: Line of storms advancing northeast

Individuals are advised to prepare for adverse conditions by securing outdoor objects and staying tuned to weather updates via reliable news sources.

Record High Temperature Recorded

In addition to the looming storms, Chicago has recorded a new high temperature at O’Hare Airport, reaching a sizzling 92 degrees — a testament to the extreme weather conditions currently gripping the area.

Looking Ahead: Future Forecast for Chicago

As night falls, the weather is expected to clear temporarily, with overnight lows settling in the low 60s. However, residents should remain cautious, as the severe weather threat returns on Friday afternoon and evening with more storms likely.

The weekend forecast suggests a turn toward cooler and calmer weather, with sunny skies and highs in the 60s expected on Saturday and Sunday. Residents should be aware of additional rain chances arriving by Tuesday and Wednesday.

What to Do in a Hail Storm

If you’re caught in a storm with large hail while driving, take these precautions:

• Pull off the road if possible and face your vehicle into the wind.
• Do not park under overpasses to avoid obstructing traffic.
• Cover yourself with jackets or floor mats in case the windshield shatters.

Staying informed and prepared is key to navigating these unpredictable weather conditions.

Tags: Chicago weather, severe storms, tornado watch, record heat, NOAA, National Weather Service, Midwest weather, weather alerts, thunderstorm risk, summer storm tips