Bill Snyder

Bill Snyder, a WGN-TV weather producer, discusses the ongoing heat wave with John Landecker, noting the East Coast is experiencing higher temperatures and providing the 4th of July weekend forecast.

Chicago and Illinois are experiencing increased humidity due to 'corn sweat,' a phenomenon where cornfields release 4,000 gallons of water daily through evapotranspiration. This process raises heat indices near 100°F as temperatures rise into the 90s, with Illinois corn crops releasing 35 billion gallons of water daily. Heavy June rainfall in northern Illinois, combined with a heat wave, has intensified the effect early this summer.

Illinois recorded 173 tornadoes in 2026, surpassing its previous state record and outpacing traditional Tornado Alley states like Kansas and Oklahoma. Meteorologists suggest a shift in tornado activity toward the Midwest, potentially linked to climate change, though improved tracking technology may also contribute to increased reports.

Chicago faces two waves of severe thunderstorms Wednesday, with the second wave posing a higher risk of tornadoes, golf ball-sized hail, and 'torrential' rain. The National Weather Service and meteorologist Bill Snyder warn of potential flash flooding and dangerous beach conditions, as the city remains recovering from last week's storms.

Bill Snyder, a WGN-TV weather producer, discusses Wednesday's storms with John Landecker, including the day's storm impact and potential future weather developments tonight and over the weekend.

Bill Snyder discusses the dry conditions in May, potential rainfall, and shares meteorological spring data and the weekend forecast with John Landecker.