Chicago, IL – Much of the Midwest is under a Freeze Warning through 9 a.m. Friday, as temperatures are expected to plunge into the upper 20s overnight. The National Weather Service warns residents across Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin to protect plants and outdoor plumbing ahead of the coldest night of the season so far.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Chicago, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, and Green Bay, the warning covers a wide area stretching from Rockford and Chicago through Indianapolis and Bloomington, and north into Green Bay and Madison. Temperatures could drop as low as 26–29 degrees, marking the first widespread freeze of autumn.
Meteorologists say the warning is in effect from 2 a.m. to 9 a.m. EDT (1 a.m. to 8 a.m. CDT). Areas away from Lake Michigan are expected to see the sharpest temperature drops.
The cold snap could kill sensitive vegetation, harm late-season crops, and damage exposed outdoor plumbing. Homeowners are urged to cover plants, disconnect hoses, and protect pets from the cold.
While skies will remain clear Friday morning, forecasters note that warmer conditions are expected to return this weekend, with highs rebounding into the upper 50s and low 60s by Sunday.
This marks the first freeze warning for many parts of the region this fall — a signal that winter-like conditions are on the horizon for the Midwest.
