Chicago weather: Potentially severe storms forecast to bring hail, wind to area along with drastic temperature drop

CHICAGO (WLS) — Meteorologists at ABC7 Chicago are currently monitoring the potential for severe weather conditions expected to develop on Thursday.

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On Wednesday, the weather was pleasantly mild with temperatures reaching the 60s throughout the Chicago region.

Overnight, while there’s a chance of scattered showers or thunderstorms, the majority of areas will likely remain dry, with temperatures slipping into the 50s.

Thursday’s forecast indicates that stormy weather could hit Chicago between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m., bringing with it potential severe conditions.

The primary threats from these storms include large hail and strong winds.

A significant drop in temperatures is anticipated as a cold front sweeps through, potentially causing a decrease of 20 to 30 degrees within just a couple of hours in some areas.

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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