Chicago, Illinois — Heavy overnight rain across the Chicago area is expected to taper off by early Monday afternoon, but wet weather will continue into the start of the workweek as cooler temperatures settle across the region.
The storms brought periods of heavy rainfall overnight and into early Sunday morning, leaving large puddles across the Chicago area and reducing visibility for drivers. While the heaviest rainfall is expected to move out, residents should not expect completely dry conditions right away.
A Flood Watch remains in effect for the area until around 1 p.m. Monday, keeping the potential for additional flooding concerns in place as the rain gradually decreases.
Heavy Rain Begins to Ease Across Chicago
The most intense rainfall is expected to wind down by early afternoon, offering some relief after a wet start to the day.
Temperatures will remain relatively mild for much of Monday, with highs reaching the 70s across portions of the region. Breezy conditions are also expected as the weather system moves through.
The warmest temperatures are likely to remain well south of Interstate 80, according to the National Weather Service.
Although rainfall will become less intense, lingering showers could continue into the day, meaning roads and sidewalks may remain wet for several hours.
Drivers should continue to use caution, particularly in areas where standing water has accumulated.
Flood Watch Remains in Effect
The ongoing rainfall has prompted continued concern about localized flooding.
A Flood Watch remains in effect until around 1 p.m., meaning conditions could still become favorable for flooding in areas that receive additional heavy rain.
Large puddles have already developed across parts of the Chicago area following the overnight storms. Additional rainfall could make some low-lying areas and poorly drained roads more difficult to navigate.
The combination of saturated ground and continued showers means residents should remain alert even after the heaviest rain moves away.
Lake Michigan Conditions Could Be Dangerous
The stormy weather is also creating dangerous conditions along Lake Michigan.
A Beach Hazards Statement remains in effect through Tuesday evening, warning of potentially hazardous swimming conditions along the shoreline.
Waves, currents and other lake conditions can become dangerous following periods of strong winds and storms. Anyone planning to visit Chicago-area beaches should pay close attention to local beach warnings and conditions before entering the water.
The unsettled weather means conditions along the lake could remain rough even after the heaviest rainfall ends.
Cooler Temperatures Arrive Tuesday
The bigger weather change arrives at the beginning of the workweek. By Tuesday, temperatures are expected to drop considerably, with highs only reaching the low to mid-60s.
Rain is also expected to remain part of the forecast, although there could be periods when clouds break enough for at least some sunshine to appear.
The sharp temperature change will be noticeable after Monday’s warmer conditions, especially for residents who have become accustomed to temperatures in the 70s.
Flood Threat Could Stretch Into Next Week as Heavy Rain Soaks the Midwest and East Coast
Temperatures Stay in the 60s This Week
Cooler weather is expected to remain in place through much of the week.
Temperatures in the 60s are expected to continue across the Chicago area, keeping conditions noticeably cooler than the warmer weather earlier in the forecast period.
Rain chances could also linger, although the exact timing and coverage of showers may vary from day to day.
For residents heading back to work or school, the combination of cooler temperatures and lingering rain could make for a damp and chilly start to the week.
The immediate focus remains on allowing the heaviest rainfall to move away, monitoring any localized flooding and staying cautious around Lake Michigan as hazardous beach conditions continue.
How is the weather looking in your part of the Chicago area? Are you ready for the cooler temperatures this week, or would you rather see the warmer weather return? Share your thoughts in the comments.