Avg High
Chicago in August
Verdict
In Chicago, August has a distinct summer feel. As the season moves along, the air is cooling down. You can usually expect a warm month that feels variable day to day. Breezes can be part of the character, especially in exposed spots.
It suits travellers who want straightforward weather for sightseeing and day trips. Lookouts and coastal walks can feel sharper when the wind is up.
Avg Low
Rain
Daylight
14h
What to expect
- Temperature feel - Summer-like warmth with evenings that feel distinctly cooler. Direct sun can push it into “hotter than expected” territory.
- Wet weather - Frequent rain spells. Expect damp surfaces and slick paths. You’ll want a proper rain setup rather than a ‘just in case’.
- Sun exposure - High UV at midday. Plan big outdoor blocks earlier or later to dodge the peak. It's the kind of sun you notice immediately.
- Exposure - A steady breeze, and gusts can make exposed walks feel cooler and more blustery. On the water or higher ground it feels stronger.
August in context
How it compares to the rest of the year in Chicago.
Hottest (avg)
#2 / 12
Wettest (avg)
#5 / 12
Daylight Hours
#4 / 12
Windiest (avg)
#12 / 12
Highest UV
#4 / 12
Most Humid
#6 / 12
Temperature
- Daytime high
-
- Nighttime low
-
- Feels like (avg)
-
Sunshine
- Daylight
- 13.8 hours
- UV index (max)
- 7
- Typical sun hours
- 04:59 – 18:48
Rain & Snow
- Total
-
- Rainy days
- 14
- Cloud cover
- 50%
- Snowfall
-
Humidity & Wind
- Humidity (avg)
- 72%
- Wind (avg)
-
- Wind (max gusts)
-
Frequently asked questions
Is August a good time to visit Chicago?
Typical August days in Chicago reach highs of 27°C (81°F) with nights around 20°C (68°F). It usually feels warm by day and mild after dark. Overall, August sits in the middle of the Chicago climate range.
What are temperatures like in August?
In August, you can usually expect highs of 27°C (81°F) and lows near 20°C (68°F). That means warm days and mild nights, so pack layers you can add or remove.
How much does it rain in August?
Rainfall in August averages 103 mm (4.1 in) across roughly 14 days. Overall it is a very wet time of year, so a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes are very handy.
How many hours of daylight are there in August?
You can expect about 14 hours of daylight in August. Sunrise is typically around 04:59 and sunset near 18:48. You get long days with comfortable amounts of daylight.
How strong is the sun in August?
UV levels are often high (around 7). Regular sunscreen and a hat are recommended.
Is it windy in August?
In August, average wind speeds are around 12 km/h (7 mph), with gusts on the windiest days reaching about 47 km/h (29 mph). On the ground, it is it often feels breezy, especially in more exposed spots or along the coast.