The Windy City Braces for a Stormy St. Paddy’s Day Celebration

Chicagoans kicked off St. Patrick’s Day festivities with an unexpected gift—summer-like temperatures nearing 80 degrees on Friday, drawing thousands of revelers to outdoor bars and beer gardens. But as the night wore on, the city’s namesake winds roared to life, bringing fierce gusts up to 60 mph and a looming threat of severe thunderstorms.

Pub Crawls and Wind Warnings Collide

With outdoor spaces packed, bar owners hustled to keep the party going—rain or shine. Chief O’Neill’s in Avondale, a local favorite, took no chances.

“You never know with Chicago weather! We’re lucky today, crossing our fingers and saying our prayers, but we’re ready for anything,” said Anluin McKinney, the pub’s manager.

The Irish Nobleman in West Town echoed the sentiment. “Chicago’s a windy city—it’s always windy,” owner Declan Morgan quipped, ensuring that most of their decorations remained indoors.

Wind Threats Could Upend the Iconic River Dyeing & Parade

While Friday’s warmth had partygoers in short sleeves, Saturday’s celebrations could face a turbulent twist.

• A high wind warning takes effect from 7 a.m. to noon, with gusts of 60 mph expected—just in time for the Chicago River dyeing at 10 a.m.
• Following the warning, a wind advisory remains from noon to 5 p.m., still packing 50 mph gusts.
• The Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade is set to begin at noon, right after the worst of the winds should (hopefully) die down.

City Officials Urge Caution Amid Festivities

The Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) is urging residents and business owners to secure loose objects, fences, and decorations ahead of the storm.

As the city’s biggest green-clad celebration barrels forward, officials say they’ll monitor the event in coordination with the Chicago Police Department, Fire Department, and City of Chicago infrastructure teams.

Storm or No Storm—The Party Goes On

Despite the forecast’s twists and turns, one thing is clear: Chicago won’t let a little wind stop the party. With Guinness flowing, bagpipes blaring, and Irish cheer in the air, this St. Patrick’s Day will be one for the books—whether it’s under sunshine or storm clouds.