NewsChicago Sun-TimesJuly 2, 2026Illinois
Chicago Weather Update: Storms Expected to Break Heat Wave Over July 4th Weekend
The National Weather Service forecasts thunderstorms and cooler temperatures for Chicago this weekend, providing relief from a multi-day heat wave. Cooling centers remain available as the city transitions from record-high heat indexes to stormier conditions.
Read the full story at Chicago Sun-TimesWhy It Matters
Residents face a shift from extreme heat risks to potential severe weather hazards, including damaging winds and heavy rain, while cooling center access remains a key service for those affected by the heat.
Key Facts
- A 69-year-old Evanston man died Wednesday due to cardiovascular disease and heat stress.
- Friday's high temperature is forecast at 92 degrees, dropping to 85 on Saturday, 84 on Sunday, and 82 on Monday.
- Thunderstorms starting after 3 p.m. Friday may bring damaging winds up to 60 mph and heavy rain.
- Heat indexes reached 105 degrees on Tuesday and Wednesday.
- Thursday temperatures reached 94 degrees, with heat indexes hitting 101 at Midway and 99 at O’Hare.
- Wednesday's temperature of 95 degrees was 11 degrees above average but 8 degrees below the 1956 record.
- Garfield Community Service Center (10 S. Kedzie Ave.) is open Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. for cooling.
- Saturday has a 60% chance of rain with potential storms between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Who's Mentioned
locationGarfield Community Service Center“Designated cooling center location.”organizationCook County Medical Examiner's office“Reported a heat-related death.”locationMidway Airport“Weather monitoring station.”locationO’Hare Airport“Weather monitoring station.”organizationNational Weather Service“Provided weather forecasts and heat index data.”