St. Louis, MO – The Midwest is on track for an unseasonably warm and mostly dry finish to October, according to the NOAA Climate Prediction Center’s latest 6–10 day outlook. The forecast, valid from October 24 through October 28, 2025, shows a strong likelihood of above-normal temperatures across Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, and surrounding states, with minimal rainfall expected.
According to NOAA’s report issued October 18, a strong ridge of high pressure will hold over the central U.S., allowing warm air to spread across the region. Daytime highs are forecast to reach the upper 60s to mid-70s, nearly 10–15 degrees above seasonal averages. Overnight lows will remain mild, significantly reducing any frost potential across the Midwest.
Precipitation chances are below average, with dry and sunny conditions dominating most of the week. Farmers and travelers alike will benefit from the quiet weather, though the lack of rain could slightly worsen dry soil conditions across central Illinois and eastern Iowa.
Meteorologists say the pattern is consistent with El Niño-driven fall warmth, which often brings extended mild weather to the Midwest before colder air returns in November.
