This post is an overview of the August weather in Chicago, including snow and precipitation forecasts, as well as tips on how to dress and things to do.
Be sure to look into the weather in July and September as well.
- Temperatures
- How Much Sun, Rain and Snow
- What to Wear
- Things to Do
- Seasonal Outlook
- Free Tours by Foot
HOW HOT IS CHICAGO IN AUGUST?

Daytime high temperatures will be mostly in the lower 80s F (27-28 C) early in the month falling into the upper 70s F (about 26 C) near the end of the month.
You can expect about 4 days, on average, reaching or exceeding 90 F (about 32 C), but mostly during the first half of the month.
The record high temperature in Chicago during August is 104 F (40.0 C).
During August, overnight and early morning low temperatures tend to be in the low 70s F (21-22 C) early in the month falling into the mid to upper 60s F (19-20 C) by the end of the month.
A few of the cooler mornings, especially towards the end of the month will dip down to near 60 F (15-16 C).
The record low temperature in Chicago during August is 41 F (5.0 C).
HOW MUCH SUN AND RAIN?
August will see about 20 days, on average, with sunny or at least partly sunny skies.
Some rainfall occurs on about 9-10 days, however, significant rains of 0.5 inches (about 13 mm) or more occur only on 2-3 days.

Daylight hours will average about 14.5 hours on August 1st but decrease to a little over 13 hours by August 31st.
Seasonal Outlook - July to September 2022 Chicago
There is a 75% chance for normal to above-normal temperatures with near-normal rainfall.
WHAT TO WEAR IN AUGUST?
Light summer clothes are best for this month with perhaps a sweater or windbreaker for a few of the cooler early mornings.

Don’t forget to bring some comfortable walking shoes.
WHAT TO DO IN CHICAGO IN AUGUST?
Below are the top things to do in August in Chicago.
But, be sure to read our full post on what to do in Chicago in August which includes free things to do, night and family-friendly activities and attractions, as well as our definitive post on the best things to do in Chicago.
And if you are planning on visiting many of Chicago's top attractions, then you should consider a tourist discount pass.
These passes could save you up to 50% of retail ticket prices for tours, attractions, and restaurants.
- Enjoy an outdoor concert
- Go on a Sightseeing Tour
- Chicago Hot Dog Fest
- Chicago Jazz Festival
- Lollapalooza
- Chicago Air and Water Show
- Attend an August Festival
- Bud Billiken Parade
- Go out for a cocktail
- Check out a Tourist Discount Pass
Be sure to check out all the top things to do in August in our main post.
Fred Pickhardt
Ocean Weather Services