By Meteorologist Richard Koeneman
Rain-weary Chicagoans anxious for the return of summery temperatures and tranquil weather relished Monday's near-90 degree readings and bright sunshine. And brisk southwest winds carried the warmth right to the shore of Lake Michigan. Even Waukegan, prone to chilly winds off the lake, registered 90 degrees. Monday's rain-free weather ended a string of nine consecutive days with at least some rain. Warm temperatures persist into today, but the approach of yet another vigorous weather system spells more storms - possibly severe - for waterlogged northeast Illinois. Only 0.41 inch of additional rain will catapult this May's rainfall, currently 7.19 inches, to 7.60 inches and the wettest May in Chicago weather history. The Storm Prediction Center has included northern Illinois in an area targeted for a slight risk of severe thunderstorms Tuesday afternoon.
Rain-weary Chicagoans anxious for the return of summery temperatures and tranquil weather relished Monday's near-90 degree readings and bright sunshine. And brisk southwest winds carried the warmth right to the shore of Lake Michigan. Even Waukegan, prone to chilly winds off the lake, registered 90 degrees. Monday's rain-free weather ended a string of nine consecutive days with at least some rain. Warm temperatures persist into today, but the approach of yet another vigorous weather system spells more storms - possibly severe - for waterlogged northeast Illinois. Only 0.41 inch of additional rain will catapult this May's rainfall, currently 7.19 inches, to 7.60 inches and the wettest May in Chicago weather history. The Storm Prediction Center has included northern Illinois in an area targeted for a slight risk of severe thunderstorms Tuesday afternoon.
