CHICAGO, Ill. – Unseasonably warm and windy conditions will keep fire danger elevated through Tuesday, followed by a sharp cooldown and midweek clearing across northern Illinois. Southwest winds gusting near 30 mph will combine with dry fields and low humidity, creating hazardous conditions for open burning and field work.
According to the National Weather Service Chicago/Romeoville, farmers and residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and use caution when operating vehicles or equipment near dry grass. Visibility could briefly drop on open stretches of I-55 and I-80 as dust is lofted from harvested fields, particularly during peak afternoon gusts.
Warmth will linger into Monday, with highs in the mid-80s—about 15 degrees above early October normals—before a cold front brings scattered showers and a noticeable temperature drop Tuesday. The front will sweep cooler air south, with highs falling into the mid-60s by Wednesday and crisp mornings ahead for fall festivals, park walks, and pumpkin patch visits.
By late week, conditions turn classic for October: clear skies, low humidity, and ideal weather for decorating, leaf-viewing, or preparing Halloween displays. The transition also marks the start of a drier, more stable pattern into next weekend.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items, limit burning, and plan for shifting travel conditions early this week. Despite brief showers Monday night and Tuesday, no significant rainfall is expected to ease dry soils across the region.
Five-Day Forecast for Chicago, IL:
Sun: 85/68 – Sunny and warm; gusty southwest winds near 30 mph.
Mon: 84/61 – Breezy; late-day showers, isolated thunder possible.
Tue: 65/56 – Cooler; scattered morning showers, north wind 15 mph.
Wed: 64/52 – Mostly sunny; light breeze, classic fall feel.
Thu: 66/50 – Sunny and dry; great for outdoor prep and leaf-viewing.
