Be ready, Chicago: rough weather is on the way

The quiet weekend in Chicago gives just enough time to get ready for what’s coming Monday. While skies stay calm and temperatures stay mild through Sunday, weather experts warn that Monday could bring serious trouble. Tornadoes, strong winds, and large hail are all possible when the storm arrives around lunchtime. Forecasters say the exact spot where the worst hits won’t be clear until the storm is much closer, so plans might need to change fast.Most of Illinois sits under a moderate risk level right now, with a smaller area just northeast of the city under a slight risk. Even if your neighborhood looks safe today, a small shift in the storm’s path could put you in the danger zone. Heavy rain could pile up quickly, raising river levels once again after recent floods. Water could creep over banks near the Rock, Fox, and Des Plaines rivers, especially where the ground is already soaked. Officials urge everyone to treat this like a real emergency drill. Know where your family can go fast, have a way to talk if phones go down, and keep flashlights, water, and snacks ready. The advice isn’t just for tornadoes—downed power lines and flash flooding can be just as deadly. Small steps taken now could make a huge difference when the wind starts to howl.