Illinois Spring Weather Alert: Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Sunday’s Forecast
Heads up, Chicago—Sunday’s weather is shaping up to be a challenge. The Illinois Spring Weather Alert is warning of a soggy and blustery end to the weekend, with steady rain and gusty winds expected to hit the city and surrounding areas by late morning. If you have plans to be on the roads, in the air, or even just running errands around town, you’ll want to prepare for slowdowns and slick conditions.
Forecasters say the rain will arrive by mid-to-late morning and continue through much of the day. Combined with wind gusts of up to 30 mph, this system could create difficult travel conditions across northeastern Illinois. And with temperatures hovering in the 50s, it’s going to feel chilly, damp, and just plain unpleasant outside.
What to Expect from the Illinois Spring Weather Alert
This round of messy weather is driven by a cold front sweeping through the region, pulling in moisture and stirring up winds along the way. The Illinois Spring Weather Alert specifically notes the greatest impacts will be felt between noon and 6 p.m.—just when many people are out and about enjoying their Sunday.
Here’s how things could play out:
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Rain: Expect periods of moderate to heavy rain. While totals won’t break records, it could add up to an inch in some spots, leading to pooling on roads and waterlogged sidewalks.
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Winds: Gusts of 25 to 35 mph could rattle windows, knock over unsecured items like trash bins or patio chairs, and make driving a bit of a white-knuckle experience, especially on bridges and expressways.
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Travel Impact: If you’re driving, plan for longer travel times and poor visibility. Flying? Check with your airline—O’Hare and Midway often see delays when weather like this moves in.
Tips to Stay Ahead of the Weather
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Leave Early: Whether it’s brunch plans or a trip to the grocery store, give yourself extra time to deal with slower traffic.
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Dress for the Weather: Waterproof jackets, sturdy shoes, and wind-resistant umbrellas will go a long way.
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Check Before You Go: Look up your travel routes or flight info to avoid getting caught off guard.
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Watch for Standing Water: Even shallow puddles can cause hydroplaning or hide dangerous potholes.
Looking Ahead
The good news? Conditions should start to ease Sunday night, with rain tapering off and winds calming by early Monday. Still, cooler-than-normal temps and lingering clouds are expected into the new week, so keep the layers handy. Spring in Illinois is always a bit of a wild card—and this weekend is no exception.
FAQ About Illinois Spring Weather Alert
1. What time will the worst of the weather hit Chicago on Sunday?
The heaviest rain and strongest wind gusts are expected between noon and 6 p.m. on Sunday. That’s when roads may be slickest and travel most impacted.
2. How strong will the winds be during this storm?
Winds will be sustained at 15–25 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph, especially in open areas and near Lake Michigan. It’s enough to knock over loose items or make driving more difficult.
