Showers and thunderstorms are likely in the Chicago area Thursday evening.
After a sunny and warm start to the day, some areas could see showers during the afternoon hours as highs stay in the low- to mid-80s.
Conditions will grow cloudy and windy heading into the evening with scattered showers and storms likely for much of the metropolitan area.
The greatest threat for severe weather will be across North Central Illinois. Thunderstorms capable of producing hail the size of quarters, wind gusts of up to 60 mph and frequent lightning are possible.
The threat will gradually diminish as conditions cool overnight but storms are possible again Friday as conditions stay humid and cloudy.
Heavy rainfall is possible Friday during the evening and overnight hours with a few storms possibly being strong to severe.
The chance for rain lingers into Saturday morning as conditions cool off significantly. Temperatures highs will drop into the 60s for the weekend.