Scattered showers, spring snow predicted across Chicago area this week
Scattered showers are expected across the Chicago area Monday afternoon, the latest in a strong storm system bringing several days of inclement weather.
Predicted highs Monday range from 44 to 56 degrees, and rain is expected areawide after around 2 p.m., according to the National Weather Service. Thunderstorms are also anticipated, as well as localized heavy downpours. Winds could gust as high as 25 mph.
“We’re kinda just stuck in that inclement weather pattern, unfortunately,” meteorologist Lee Carlaw said.
The Chicago Cubs are slated for their home opener at 1:20 p.m. against the Colorado Rockies. The White Sox are also set to play the Atlanta Braves at home at 1:10 p.m. Both game are facing the possibility of being rained out.
Overnight storms Sunday already brought up to 2 to 3 inches of rain south of Chicago, according to the weather service.
Waves of showers will continue into Tuesday. High temperatures are expected to hover around 41 degrees, with a 90% chance of precipitation throughout the day. Thunderstorms are also likely, but they’re difficult to predict, Carlaw said.
“A lot of uncertainty in this forecast,” Carlaw said. “It’s unclear how this storm may or may not evolve.”
Tuesday night, blustery conditions could bring a mix of rain and snow northwest of Interstate 55. Northwesterly winds are predicted to gust over 45 mph, bringing high waves which could flood lakefront trails in Indiana.
There’s a chance for slushy snow accumulations across the region Wednesday, though it’s unclear exactly where and how much, Carlaw said. The most snow will likely fall in the northern suburbs.
“We couldn’t rule out some slushy accumulation, but this time of year, it’s really difficult to receive substantial snowfall,” Carlaw said. “This is a low confidence forecast.”
Snow and rain are expected to continue overnight Wednesday into early Thursday morning. By Thursday, the inclement weather will finally abate, with partly sunny skies and a high near 42 degrees.
“There may be some lingering rain and snow showers, but at this point, things will be trending drier,” Carlaw said.