Chicago braces for Helene's remnants and strong winds Friday
- Tropical Storm Helene has been downgraded, but its remnants are still affecting Chicago with high winds.
- A wind advisory is in place for multiple counties, and dangerous waves are expected at Lake Michigan.
- Residents should remain cautious and prepared for potential hazards due to the storm's impact.
The remnants of Tropical Storm Helene are impacting Chicago, with significant winds expected to reach up to 55 mph on Friday evening. By 4 p.m., tropical storm-force winds of 40 mph were already recorded at Midway International Airport. A wind advisory is in effect for several counties in Illinois and Indiana, warning residents of the potential dangers associated with these high winds. The strong winds are contributing to hazardous conditions at Lake Michigan, where waves are forecasted to reach heights of 7-10 feet, prompting a Beach Hazard warning that will last through Sunday morning. As the storm system continues to move, it is anticipated that the highest wind gusts will occur between 7 p.m. and midnight. While the northern edge of the rain shield from Helene remains just south of Chicago, the area is expected to remain dry with cloudy and windy conditions on Friday. However, scattered showers are likely on Saturday, with a high temperature of 72 degrees, and another chance for rain on Sunday, with temperatures reaching 73 degrees. The merging of Helene's remnants with an upper-level system is expected to bring flooding rains to the Tennessee Valley, indicating that the storm's effects will extend beyond Chicago. As the circulation of the storm stalls over Kentucky, it will continue to influence weather patterns in the surrounding regions, including increased northeast winds across Chicago. Residents are advised to stay informed about the weather conditions and take necessary precautions due to the potential hazards posed by the high winds and dangerous waves at local beaches.