Chicago, IL – A rare October heat wave is set to grip Chicago through the weekend, with temperatures climbing well into the 80s before storms move in early next week. Afternoon highs Saturday may approach 87 degrees, levels more typical of mid-July than early fall.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, southerly winds will funnel warm air into the region through Sunday, keeping skies mostly sunny and humidity manageable. Nighttime lows will hover in the upper 60s, unusually mild for October. The warmth will peak Saturday and Sunday, when both O’Hare and Midway could flirt with record daily highs.
The stretch of summerlike weather will end late Monday into Tuesday as a cold front pushes across northern Illinois. NWS forecasters warn of scattered showers developing Monday night, with thunderstorms possible by Tuesday afternoon. While severe weather is not yet certain, commuters along I-90, I-55, and I-294 should anticipate slower travel and wet roads for the Tuesday evening drive.
City officials are advising residents to stay hydrated at outdoor events this weekend, especially seniors and children. Gardeners should also take advantage of the warmth to prepare plants before a more seasonable cooldown midweek. By Wednesday, highs will return to the low 80s before dipping further into the 60s by Thursday.
Five-Day Forecast for Chicago, IL:
Fri: 83/69 – Sunny, light south wind.
Sat: 87/68 – Hot, sunny; breezy with gusts near 15 mph.
Sun: 85/68 – Sunny, unseasonably warm.
Mon: 82/63 – Mostly sunny; showers develop late.
Tue: 68/55 – Cloudy, showers and storms possible afternoon.
