High heat back on track for Monday and Tuesday
The high heat phase of Chicago’s late-July heat wave was put on temporary hold Sunday as unexpected thunderstorms clipped the city, bringing a midday serving of clouds and cooler air. Highs fell short of anticipated readings in the upper 90s but still managed to reach 90º, extending the current string of 90º-plus days to three with three more expected before the heat wave breaks on Thursday.
The hot air should move into Chicago in earnest Monday and Tuesday with readings expected to top out around 100º, threatening the record highs for both days. Nightfall will offer little relief with readings in the city likely to remain above 80º both nights.
Clouds and showers should temper the heat a bit on Wednesday, but real relief won’t arrive until Thursday as northeast winds finally usher in low-80º air with comfortable humidity.
--By Steve Kahn, WGN-TV Weather Center