Overview

• The National Weather Service has upgraded Chicago's severe weather risk to Level 3 out of 5 for Thursday, highlighting large hail and damaging winds as primary threats.
• Storm activity is forecast to develop between 5 and 10 p.m. Thursday, contingent on favorable atmospheric conditions.
• Temperatures are expected to climb to near-record highs of 90°F or above, increasing instability ahead of the approaching cold front.
• A Dense Fog Advisory remains in effect for Lake, McHenry, and northern Cook counties until 10 a.m. Thursday morning.
• Following the storm risk, Friday will bring windy conditions with gusts over 45 mph and heightened brushfire concerns, transitioning to a calm, sunny weekend.