Chicago residents have been basking in an unusually warm and sunny October, a rarity for the Windy City. According to WGN‑TV meteorologist Bill Snyder, the city has already seen about 75% of possible sunshine, far exceeding the typical 57% for this time of year.
Unseasonably warm temperatures
Average high temperatures have topped 70°F, and the overall daily average sits at 61.2°F, putting the month more than six degrees above the historical October average. This makes the current month the sixth‑warmest October on record and the warmest since 1971.
Dry spell and upcoming showers
After a wet start with 1.41 inches of rain on October 1, the city has gone 12 days without a drop. However, Snyder warns that the pattern is about to change. Starting Thursday, scattered showers are expected over the next few days, bringing a more active weather pattern.
Cooler but still mild weekend
Temperatures are set to dip this weekend, but they will remain above normal. Saturday’s high is forecast around 56°F, yet the city will likely stay in the 60s, offering a comfortable Halloween night for trick‑or‑treaters.
When will the first freeze arrive?
Historically, Chicago sees its first 32°F temperature around October 19. This year, the first freeze appears to be delayed, with no sub‑freezing temperatures in the forecast yet.
Overall, Chicagoans can enjoy an extended summer‑like stretch before the inevitable return of cooler, more typical autumn weather later this week.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
