CHICAGO, Ill. – A stunning stretch of fall weather continues across northeastern Illinois this Saturday as sunshine and mild temperatures set up a perfect weekend for outdoor plans and Columbus Day travel. With highs near 70 degrees and low humidity, park-goers and pumpkin patch visitors will find ideal conditions through Monday.
According to the National Weather Service Chicago office, high pressure will dominate through the holiday, keeping skies mostly sunny and winds light. Temperatures will climb from the mid-60s Saturday to the lower 70s on Columbus Day before a gradual cool-down midweek. Motorists along I-55 and I-90 can expect smooth travel under clear skies, though patchy morning fog may briefly reduce visibility in rural areas.
Fall foliage viewing will be near peak across northern Illinois, especially in DuPage, Lake, and McHenry Counties. The NWS advises taking advantage of the stable pattern before a shift to cloudier, wetter weather develops late Tuesday into Wednesday. A weak front could bring scattered showers and a noticeable dip in temperatures by Thursday.
Residents planning to decorate for Halloween or attend fall festivals should enjoy one of the most pleasant October weekends so far. Outdoor workers and early commuters should prepare for crisp mornings, with lows near the low-50s. Keep light jackets handy and stay alert for cooler air later in the week.
Five-Day Forecast for Chicago, IL:
Sat: 65/53 – Mostly sunny; light northeast breeze, ideal fall afternoon.
Sun: 68/56 – Sunny; warm and dry, great for leaf viewing.
Mon (Columbus Day): 72/60 – Partly sunny; mild, perfect for outdoor plans.
Tue: 67/55 – Partly sunny; late showers possible south of I-80.
Wed: 61/51 – Mostly sunny; cooler, breezy fall pattern returning.
