Long stretch of heat and storms begins today, lingers into Friday

Monday could have been a bit more active if it wasn't for the showers and storms that passed through earlier in the day. What that basically did was push the severe weather threat to our south and east, leaving conditions dry and clear overnight. 

However, this was just the first of multiple chances that northern Illinois has to see storms this week. Especially now that conditions are to be a bit more hot and humid moving forward. 

Tuesday begins with patchy fog and temperatures in the upper 60s. If you plan to be out for the morning drive, take it slow if you do encounter any areas being impacted by lower visibility. 

Aside from an isolated afternoon shower or storm, a good chunk of the day aims to remain dry with temperatures peaking in the upper 80s. With a light southwest wind in place, expect heat indices to make the jump into the mid 90s. 

Towards the evening, our attention will turn to our northwest as storm evolution will determine who will see the highest coverage for strong to severe storms and flash flooding. Earlier this morning, the Storm Prediction Center placed areas stretching from southeast South Dakota to northern Georgia under a level 2 Slight Risk for severe weather. This does include our areas that hug the Mississippi River, mainly for damaging winds. The rest of the region is under a level 1 Marginal Risk.

A few more uncertainties will be in play Wednesday, such as the state of the "cap" or lid on the atmosphere as well as the position of the warm front. Right now, the Storm Prediction Center has the entire area under a level 1 Marginal Risk. Again, this would be for strong winds and heavy rainfall. 

A more organized storm system will then slide to our north by Thursday afternoon, continuing the potential for storms and flash flooding. Headlines also include additional heat and humidity as Wednesday and Thursday could feature heat indices near 100 degrees. As previously mentioned, check the forecast frequently and make sure to take the necessary steps to keep yourselves and your loved ones safe from severe weather and from the grueling heat. We do see this weather pattern simmer down a bit by the weekend as an area of high pressure introduces northwest flow.