As the city prepares to welcome thousands for the NASCAR Street Race, sunny conditions with temperatures hovering in the 70s were expected this weekend in Chicago, according to the National Weather Service,
If weather predictions hold, it would mark a significant departure from last year’s rain-drenched race.
The forecast for Saturday was partly sunny with a high near 74 degrees, said Lee Carlaw, a meteorologist with the weather service in Romeoville. A lake breeze will help keep temperatures cool downtown, he added.
As for rain, he said there’s about a 10% to 15% chance of sprinkles in the morning and afternoon.
“It certainly doesn’t look like a washout or anything,” Carlaw said. “They’ll be … cloud cover around, and you could see a really light shower or sprinkle develop out of those.”
Sunday will likely be a bit warmer, with temperatures possibly reaching the low 80s downtown, Carlaw said.
A 20% to 25% chance of showers and storms developing after 7 p.m., although he thinks they will hold off for most of the day.
The 2.2-mile course will transform downtown Chicago this weekend, with NASCAR drivers weaving through closed-off streets near Grant Park with temporary fences and grandstands during the televised event. Saturday’s The Loop 110 (Xfinity Series) is 50 laps, while Sunday’s Grant Park 165 (Cup Series) is 75 laps.
Last year’s event was heavily affected by torrential rainfall, including curtailed races, canceled concerts and a drenched crowd that fell short of targets, although the broadcast was a hit for NBC, averaging 4.8 million viewers.
Chicago Tribune’s Kori Rumore contributed.