The last few months have been a far cry from the long persistent hostile winters we’re used to. While last month saw Chicago battle freezing rain, and sub-zero temperatures that were colder than many parts of Alaska, temperatures this month are currently vying with the year 1882 for the warmest February in Chicago on record.
Now the weather is taking another dramatic turn with the National Weather Service today warning of a sharp temperature increase bringing “a level 2 of 5 risk of severe storms” that could produce “large hail, damaging winds, and even a tornado or two.”
The big temperature swing over the next 24 hours will bring the warmest day ever recorded during February with highs in the 70s forecast today followed by a “powerful cold front” this evening and a brief burst of snow tomorrow.
The “dramatic” temperature change this evening will produce a 20-30°F temperature drop in just an hour that will bring with it scattered storms from 6 pm until midnight, some of which could become severe.
According to the National Weather Service, “the primary threat is large hail, possibly up to 2” inches diameter” while strong northwest winds of 35-45 mph are expected later today and could briefly reach speeds of over 50 mph.
There is still uncertainty about whether snow will occur tonight as the temperature shifts but if snow does fall the plummeting temperatures will likely lead to roads becoming snow-covered and very hazardous.
With the combination of strong winds and record warm temps causing very dry conditions today however, the National Weather Service is warning people to exercise extreme caution when disposing of smoking materials.
Any brush fire could have the potential to spread rapidly and become extremely difficult to control.
Temperatures will remain fairly low for the rest of the week before rising again to “spring-like levels” on the weekend.
Stay safe out there Chicago, and as ever, you can head to the National Weather Service website for all the latest weather updates.
[Featured image from Shutterstock]