Even though we’re just under 3 inches of rainfall above normal since June 1 and 8 and a half inches above normal since the first of the year, Chicago’s official observing site at O’Hare is running nearly an inch and a half deficit this month, and topsoil in many areas is dry. July has averaged 4.2 degrees above normal, and the last couple days have carried very low humidity. Both enhance evaporation, so the expected showers and storms the next two to three days is welcome news for many.

Most rainfall could occur later Thursday night into Friday, as low pressure approaches from the west triggering strong thunderstorms that could hit many locations with downpours.

As the low pressure moves off to the east, a rain-free period should ensue with our next best chance of rain looking to occur Wednesday.