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Fire Weather Watch Issued for Chicago Amid Warm Temps

2/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

The National Weather Service has issued a Fire Weather Watch for northern Illinois, including Chicago, due to unseasonably warm temperatures, low humidity, and gusty winds that create a risk of fast-spreading wildfires.
The watch is in effect from Wednesday morning through Wednesday evening.
Highs will reach the 60s with humidity around 15–25%, heightening wildfire risk.
Residents are advised against outdoor burning since any fire could spread rapidly.

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Story summary

The National Weather Service has issued a Fire Weather Watch for northern Illinois, including Chicago, due to unseasonably warm temperatures, low humidity, and gusty winds that create a risk of fast-spreading wildfires.
The watch is in effect from Wednesday morning through Wednesday evening.
Highs will reach the 60s with humidity around 15–25%, heightening wildfire risk.
Residents are advised against outdoor burning since any fire could spread rapidly.