If you haven’t already, bust out the patio furniture — hot temperatures Thursday could break a 51-year-old record.
Thursday saw a beautiful start to the day in contrast to the previous two mornings, seeing clear skies with just a touch of haze.
The day will start off slightly chilly with a breeze coming in off the lake but by late morning the Chicago area will see upper 70s and low 80s.
Chicago expects a high of 87 degrees by late afternoon. The last time it was that hot on May 7 was in 1964.
The warm weather will be paired with mostly sunny, windy weather. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph during the day.
Tonight, there is a small chance of showers, with a low temperature of 68 degrees.
Friday will see 80-degree weather as well but a higher chance for thunderstorms in the afternoon.
Local
The unseasonably high temperatures will go back to normal by Saturday, when a high of 69 degrees is expected. At least a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms is expected throughout the weekend.