Chicago is facing a two-day weather event: showers and thunderstorms are likely today, Tuesday, June 16, with a high near 73°F and gusty winds — but Wednesday’s dangerous severe weather outbreak is the headline every Chicagoan needs to read before making any plans.
Today’s Setup
A band of showers and isolated thunderstorms is expected to sweep across the area from roughly sunrise through midmorning, with a second round of scattered storms likely along the approaching cold front from early to mid-afternoon. The National Weather Service puts today’s precipitation chance at 70%. West-southwest winds will gust up to 35 mph all day — even the dry windows will feel blustery along the lakefront and through Lincoln Park. High near 73°F, easing to around 71°F by late afternoon.
Tonight offers real relief: partly cloudy skies, a comfortable low around 59°F, and winds easing to 5 to 15 mph. That’s your cleanest stretch of weather until Thursday.
Severe Weather Warning: Wednesday, June 17
Do not take Wednesday lightly. The National Weather Service is forecasting a dangerous severe weather outbreak with a 100% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 7 AM CT. Forecasters are warning of the potential for long-tracked, strong-to-violent tornadoes — especially south of I-80. Locally heavy rainfall between 1 and 2 inches is expected, raising flash flooding concerns across the entire metro. Have a shelter plan ready and stay weather-aware throughout the day.
With widespread power outages a real possibility, a DARAN 288Wh Power Station for just $90 is worth grabbing before the storms arrive.
Cubs at Wrigley and Wednesday Night Plans
Cubs fans: The Chicago Cubs host the Colorado Rockies at Wrigley Field on Wednesday, June 17 — an outdoor game that falls squarely in the severe weather window. Watch for official schedule announcements; this one could easily be postponed. The series continues Thursday and Friday at Wrigley, where conditions look far more cooperative. Gear up with a Chicago Cubs jersey or a Chicago Cubs fitted cap, and Get tickets on SeatGeek for the Friday, June 19 matchup against the Toronto Blue Jays.
Concert-goers: The Strokes bring their Reality Awaits North America tour to United Center on Wednesday, June 17. The show is indoors, so it should proceed — but build in extra travel time and monitor storm timing closely. A The Strokes t-shirt is a great pre-show pickup.
What To Wear Or Bring Today
A packable rain jacket is non-negotiable today — stash one in your bag before you head out. A compact travel umbrella handles the lighter showers between storm bands. Browse outdoor gear deals if you’re stocking up for the week ahead.
Rainy Day Dinner
Back-to-back stormy days call for serious comfort food. Load a programmable slow cooker with chili ingredients before work and let it run all day while you stay off Wednesday’s dangerous roads. Or simmer a thick beef stew in an enameled cast iron Dutch oven on the stovetop. Need supplies? You can order groceries on Amazon and have everything delivered before the storms hit.
Next Few Days
- Wednesday, June 17: Dangerous severe weather — stay home if possible, especially south of I-80. Tornadoes possible.
- Thursday, June 18: Gradual clearing. Cubs vs. Rockies continue at Wrigley. Carín León’s De Sonora Para El Mundo Tour plays Allstate Arena.
- Friday, June 19: Improving conditions. Cubs host the Blue Jays at Wrigley. Morgan Wallen with Brooks and Dunn at Soldier Field.
- Saturday, June 20: ROSALÍA: LUX TOUR 2026 lands at United Center. Check the Chicago weather forecast for updated weekend conditions.
Stay safe out there, Chicago. Wednesday is a day to take very seriously.
