Today is a terrible day to attempt an uninterrupted workout, especially downtown or near any substantial body of water.
- Trying to navigate DuSable Lake Shore Drive or Grant Park? Good luck. The Chicago Triathlon has effectively shut down key parts of the city's prime running real estate.
- Don't even think about an evening run. We've got scattered thunderstorms rolling in through this evening, with a good chance of damaging winds and hail. Nobody needs a tree branch to the head.
- Air quality is sitting at a "moderate" 51 AQI, with PM2.5 being the dominant pollutant. Not great, not terrible, but pair it with moderate pollen and you'll definitely feel it.
Chicago's Concrete Jungle and Weather Woes
If you had grand plans for a long run along DuSable Lake Shore Drive or a serene pedal through Grant Park this morning, you probably hit a wall. And that wall was probably a police barricade. The Chicago Triathlon is in full swing today, August 25th, and it's brought with it the usual cascade of street closures. Southbound DuSable Lake Shore Drive, from Hollywood all the way down to Randolph, is shut down until noon. Columbus Drive and other key downtown arteries are also choked off.
Lakefront Lockdown: Forget your usual route. Due to the Chicago Triathlon, significant sections of DuSable Lake Shore Drive and surrounding downtown streets are closed. Plan for major detours or pick a different neighborhood entirely.
Evening Thunder Rumbles
Even if you managed to dodge the triathlon chaos this morning, don't get too comfortable. The National Weather Service is calling for scattered thunderstorms through this evening, with a few potentially severe, packing damaging winds and large hail, especially west of the immediate lakefront. Hydrate, sure, but also consider hydrating indoors while watching the storm roll through. Nobody wants to be caught out in a downpour with lightning doing its thing.
Evening Storms Approaching: Later today, expect scattered thunderstorms with potential for damaging winds and hail. If your workout window is this afternoon or evening, move it indoors or reschedule.
Air & Allergens: The Usual Suspects
Beyond the immediate hazards, our air isn't exactly sparkling. An AQI of 51 is moderate, meaning those of you with sensitive lungs might feel some irritation. Couple that with a moderate pollen count, and it’s a recipe for a snotty, wheezy experience. Don't be a hero.
Pollen Breakdown:
| Pollen Type | Level |
|---|---|
| Overall | Moderate |
Trail Caution: For those venturing further afield into the Forest Preserves, remember that parts of the Thorn Creek Trail System are still dealing with storm debris from earlier this month. Also, watch out for construction vehicles near the I-394 expressway underpass if you're hitting the unpaved yellow trail in Jurgensen Woods.
So, if you absolutely must get out there, stick to known clear paths, head indoors for your evening session, and for the love of all that is holy, stay away from downtown until they clean up after the triathlon. Your lungs, joints, and sanity will thank you.
Data grounded with National Weather Service, Airmine, and Forest Preserves of Cook County from August 25, 2026.