Weather
Northern Illinois Weather Alert: Thunderstorms, 32° Lows Oct. 13-16
Chicago, IL – Northern Illinois is facing a dramatic weather shift beginning Tuesday, October 13, as unseasonably warm temperatures approaching 88 degrees give way to overnight thunderstorms, addition
By Wesley Grant · 2026-10-13T09:14:40.090Z
Chicago, IL – Northern Illinois is facing a dramatic weather shift beginning Tuesday, October 13, as unseasonably warm temperatures approaching 88 degrees give way to overnight thunderstorms, additional rainfall and a sharp cooldown that could bring frost to some communities by Friday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, Tuesday afternoon temperatures will reach 75 to 88 degrees before a cold front brings scattered showers and thunderstorms after 8 p.m.
The greatest coverage of storms is expected near and south of Interstate 88, including portions of the Chicago metropolitan area and surrounding northern Illinois communities.
Forecasters indicate a 50% to 70% chance of precipitation Tuesday night. Although severe weather is not expected, some thunderstorms could produce dime sized hail, lightning, downpours and locally gusty winds.
Rain and storms could continue into early Wednesday, October 14, before conditions become mostly cloudy. Additional morning showers or drizzle are possible, particularly south of Interstate 88, with highs ranging from 61 to 71 degrees.
Another round of widespread rain is expected Thursday, October 15, as a fall storm system moves across the region. Afternoon temperatures will range from 59 to 70 degrees, with rain chances continuing into the evening before precipitation gradually ends after midnight.
By Friday, October 16, much cooler air will settle across northern Illinois.
High temperatures are forecast to reach only 53 to 56 degrees, with breezy conditions and a slight chance of lake effect showers near northwest Indiana.
Friday morning temperatures could fall into the 32 to 41 degree range, creating the potential for frost in locations away from Chicago and Lake Michigan.
Residents with sensitive outdoor plants should monitor overnight temperatures, while drivers should prepare for wet roads and reduced visibility during periods of heavier rainfall.
The National Weather Service encourages residents to follow updated forecasts as the cold front moves through the region.