2019-06-29 22:54:12
Massive crowds are expected at Chicago’s annual Pride Parade on Sunday afternoon, but parade-goers will need to keep an eye on the sky as the threat of showers and thunderstorms will loom over the festive day.
According to the latest forecast models, the Chicago area has a high likelihood of seeing showers in the early afternoon hours when the parade is getting underway. In addition to that rain, the threat of thunderstorms will also be present as a weather system sweeps in rapidly from the northwest.
Unlike other thunderstorms over the last few days, these storms will be moving very quickly as they pass through the area, bringing the threat of not only lightning and rain but also of strong straight-line winds that could pose a threat to parade-goers.
There is a small chance of hail with the storms, but the main threat with any developing thunderstorms is of lightning and high winds, as large storm clouds will build up and be carried along by the Jetstream through the early afternoon hours.
As for when the rain and thunderstorms will arrive, that remains to be seen. Current models have the arrival time ranging from late morning to mid-afternoon, and a clearer picture will likely emerge Sunday morning as more definitive forecast models are released.
Those planning to attend the parade should come up with a plan for shelter in the event of inclement weather, whether it be in a building or in their vehicles. Parade-goers can also download the NBC Chicago app for all the latest notifications on potential inclement weather, as well as an interactive radar and the very latest forecasts for parade day.