Weather
Chicago, IL Weather Oct 10: Near-Record Columbus Day Heat, Then Rain
Chicago, IL – Residents across northern Illinois are heading into an unusually hot Columbus Day holiday, with temperatures approaching 90 degrees Monday, Oct. 12, before a cold front brings rain and n
By Nora Whitfield · 2026-10-11T20:07:37.449Z
Chicago, IL – Residents across northern Illinois are heading into an unusually hot Columbus Day holiday, with temperatures approaching 90 degrees Monday, Oct. 12, before a cold front brings rain and noticeably cooler weather by midweek.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, near record warmth will continue through Tuesday, with generally dry conditions before rain chances increase Tuesday night into Wednesday.
Columbus Day Temperatures Could Approach Records
Monday afternoon highs are forecast between 84 and 89 degrees across the Chicago forecast area, with breezy conditions accompanying the unseasonable warmth.
The National Weather Service says record highs for Monday generally range from 84 to 89 degrees, putting several communities within reach of historic temperatures.
Monday night will remain unusually mild, with lows between 67 and 71 degrees.
Tuesday will bring another warm afternoon, with highs ranging from 79 to 89 degrees before a cold front approaches the region.
Rain and Cooler Weather Arrive Midweek
Rain chances increase Tuesday night, with the National Weather Service forecasting a 60% to 80% chance of precipitation during the overnight period.
Showers could continue into Wednesday, especially during the morning hours and in locations south of Interstate 80.
Wednesday's rain chances range from 30% to 50%, while afternoon highs are expected to fall into the 66 to 78 degree range.
Another weather system may bring additional rain Thursday, with precipitation chances between 50% and 60%.
Temperatures will continue cooling Thursday, with highs between 64 and 73 degrees and overnight lows potentially dropping into the mid 40s to lower 50s.
What Residents Should Know
The changing forecast could affect midweek commutes, particularly during periods of rain Wednesday and Thursday.
Residents planning outdoor activities should take advantage of the dry Columbus Day conditions while preparing for cooler temperatures and wet weather later in the week.