Chicago, Metro Detroit brace for severe thunderstorms, highs near 80

Chicago is set to experience its first 80-degree day of the year on Friday, bringing a 'taste of summer' but also a risk of severe weather, including strong winds, heavy downpours, hail, and the possibility of tornadoes. Forecasters expect afternoon highs to surpass 80°F in many areas, with gusty south winds reaching up to 40 mph, while a cold front will likely trigger thunderstorms between 7 p.m. and midnight. The National Weather Service has placed the entire Chicago area under a 'slight' risk for severe storms, with damaging winds and hail as the primary threats. After the storms, temperatures will cool significantly for Easter weekend, with highs dropping into the 50s and continued chances for rain, especially on Sunday. Similar patterns are expected in Metro Detroit, where warm temperatures may also give way to overnight storms, though the severe weather risk there is considered slightly lower. A gradual warm-up is forecast for early next week, with temperatures returning to the 70s by midweek.