Monday almanac: Dry, sunny and comfortable in Chicagoland as humidity takes a quick break

NOTE: This article is now an almanac of Monday’s weather. We have published a new forecast story for Tuesday.

The humidity eased up and comfortable conditions settled over Chicagoland — for a day, at least.

The muggy conditions of late abated to start the work week, as the dome of heat that settled over our area shifted east for a moment.

That brought cooler temperatures and drier air to Chicagoland, with a comfortable and sunny Monday. Early-morning cloud cover cleared, with high temps staying in the lower 80s inland and mid-70s along the lake, along with no rain.

Dangerous swim conditions

While Monday brought pleasant conditions to hang out at Lake Michigan beaches, getting in the water was not safe.

Winds out of the north/northeast created waves of 4 to 7 feet. The National Weather Service issued a Beach Hazards Statement through Monday evening for all lakeside counties in Illinois, as well as in Northwest Indiana and Southeastern Wisconsin.

The statement advised people to stay out of the water at Lake Michigan beaches and also to avoid venturing out onto piers, jetties, breakwalls, or other shoreline structures.

Warmer and muggier conditions will return to Chicagoland on Tuesday, along with the chance for afternoon showers and storms.

And while rain may put a damper on outdoor summer plans, we do need some in our area given the current drought conditions.

The extended outlook calls for much of this week to be warm, but not too hot, at least compared to last week. Friday looks to be the only day in the low 90s, as of now.

Meanwhile, Monday and Thursday look totally dry, while just about every other day this week brings a chance for rain or storms.

The early weekend forecast looks nice for now, with high temps in the mid-80s.