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CHICAGO — Meteorologists at ABC7 Chicago are closely monitoring the potential for severe weather conditions expected to hit on Thursday.
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Wednesday brought pleasant weather to the Chicago region, with temperatures rising into the 60s.
Overnight, there’s a chance for an isolated shower or thunderstorm, though most areas are anticipated to remain dry as temperatures fall into the 50s.
The forecast predicts that storms are likely to strike the Chicago area between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Thursday.
These storms may reach severe levels, with the primary threats being large hail and strong winds.
The cold front is expected to drastically drop temperatures. Some locations could drop 20 to 30 degrees in one to two hours.
On Thursday, fans will pack Wrigley Field for the Cubs home opener against the Washington Nationals and first pitch is at 1:20 p.m.
The game could feature temperature starting in the 60s but then dropping into the low 40s by the last inning, meteorologist Larry Mowry said.
Temperatures will vary across the Chicago area, so meteorologist Jaisol Martinez highly suggests preparing with layers to keep warm.
Most of Cook County is under a Level 2 to 3 out of 5 for risk of severe weather.
There is small risk for a tornado well south of I-80.
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