From June 25 to July 4, 2025, the Chicago and Milwaukee National Weather Services issued multiple forecasts and warnings regarding isolated to widely scattered thunderstorms affecting parts of Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. These storms, expected primarily in the afternoons and evenings, have the potential to produce gusty or damaging winds, torrential rainfall, hail, and frequent lightning. Coverage of storms has been hit-or-miss, with many areas remaining dry despite the threat. Heat indices near 100 degrees were reported in Illinois away from the lakeshore, contributing to hot and humid conditions. On July 4, a line of storms moved southward from Wisconsin into northern Illinois and northwestern Indiana, prompting advisories for parade-goers to exercise caution. Morning thunderstorms in Wisconsin included wind gusts between 40-45 mph and brief heavy downpours. Forecasts indicated that storm chances would increase over the weekend, with Sunday having the highest likelihood of scattered storms. Throughout this period, residents were advised to seek shelter during thunderstorm activity due to the risks of lightning and severe weather.
A bit of morning sunshine will give way to mostly cloudy to overcast conditions by lunchtime. Showers and storms will begin to develop across the region after noon, and certainly by 2-3 p.m. These storms will pop up here and there. https://t.co/EoUaBfs5wb https://t.co/0LMuSo5Flu
🚨🚨🚨Anyone with plans to go to a parade this morning, heads up! A line of storms is moving into Illinois from Wisconsin. Here's a look at when they may reach your area. (Note the storms may not make it to the southern-most blue zone). #ILwx #INwx https://t.co/YkbHenux3S
🚨🚨🚨 Anyone with plans to go to a parade this morning, heads up! A line of storms is dropping south into Illinois from Wisconsin. here's a look at the time windows for when the line may reach your area. (Note it may not reach that southern-move blue zone). #ILwx #INwx https://t.co/YkbHenux3S