Drought conditions worsen across the Chicagoland area. New update from USDA: Moderate Drought covers virtually all of Chicagoland ILLINOIS: When compared to a week ago: Areas of moderate drought have increased 236% INDIANA: When compared to a week ago: Areas of moderate drought have increased 141% Rain chances increase later this weekend Chicago’s rain and thunderstorm

Much of Northwest Pennsylvania recently went through several days without rain. Just yesterday, the deficit between the actual and normal total rainfall since January 1st increased in magnitude to -3.

Thunderstorms are expected Friday night, with highest chances south and east of the city. Gusty winds are the main storm threat ahead. Storms are expected to clear by Friday night

Some much needed, "significant" rain was on the way for the Chicago area for the first time in over three weeks. The forecasted rain comes a day after nearly half of Illinois was listed at a "moderate" stage of drought,

CHICAGO - This morning, decaying showers are moving toward Chicago. Light rain will be possible for the commute, although many will miss out on the wet weather. We are watching to see if the atmosphere destabilizes enough after the morning showers for afternoon storms.

As fall approaches, the Chicago area stays summer-like with dry conditions and warm, above-average temperatures for another day, the NBC 5 Storm Team said. "Our summer trend continues," NBC 5 Meteorologist Alicia Roman said,

Early Friday morning, a weakening line of showers, and possibly a few storms, will sweep into the western suburbs before daybreak. As the front moves eastward, the showers are expected to lose steam,

Emily Wahls has your Chicago weather update!