CHICAGO, IL – Leaves tumble across the Lake Michigan shoreline this morning, swept by brisk southwest winds that ripple through the streets and suburbs. The air feels mild for early November, but conditions across northern Illinois are ripe for elevated fire danger and shifting weather as the week begins.
The National Weather Service in Chicago warns that strong northwest winds and very low humidity north of the Kankakee River could elevate fire weather risk through this afternoon. Gusts between 25 and 35 mph may quickly dry grasses and leaf piles — meaning even small sparks can spread. Outdoor burning should be postponed until calmer, more humid air returns later in the week.
For most of the metro area, skies stay mostly cloudy early, clearing gradually through midday with highs near 60°F. Tuesday brings the week’s mildest stretch, pushing highs into the low 60s under mostly sunny skies — ideal for travel, errands, or early holiday prep. But by late Wednesday into Thursday, a front approaching from the west brings increasing clouds and a 50% chance of rain.
After Thursday’s showers, temperatures will dip slightly by the weekend, hovering in the 50s with clearing skies. Long-range models hint at a potential mid-November cold snap, possibly the first sign of pre-Thanksgiving frost or flurries in the upper Midwest.
For now, Chicago’s early November rhythm holds steady — dry, breezy, and deceptively mild — a short-lived calm before the seasonal chill inevitably moves in from the plains.
Five-Day Outlook for Chicago, IL:
Mon: 60/42 – Windy; fire risk north.
Tue: 61/52 – Mostly sunny; mild.
Wed: 57/43 – Sunny; cooler breeze.
Thu: 61/52 – Rain likely late.
Fri: 60/41 – Clearing; cooler trend.
