Chicago sees a high of 80 degrees this Tuesday, creating a stark contrast with the early-season winter storm in the Northern Plains, according to the Chicago Tribune.
Mainly dry conditions are expected through this evening, then periods of showers and a few thunderstorms are forecasted through an active week. Unseasonably mild temperatures are expected, but cooler temperatures will follow the active pattern this weekend. #ILwx #INwx pic.twitter.com/yBYOlzwW5o
— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) October 24, 2023
This warmth, unusual for late October, is a harbinger for an unsettled weather pattern that Alicia Roman, meteorologist from NBC 5, predicts will begin late Tuesday, involving daily chances for rain and isolated storms that to quickly ensue throughout the week as reported on NBC 5.
80-degree days in October are not unheard of in Chicago. Since 2017, such high temperatures have occurred in late September or early October. The last average 80-degree day typically falls on October 5, with the record high for October 24 being 83 degrees, set in 1963. The latest final 80-degree day occurred on November 1, 1950.
While Chicago residents may enjoy the current warmth, they should prepare for changes. Especially, wind gusts could reach speeds of 35 miles per hour at times. Clouds are likely to increase around 4 p.m. with sporadic showers developing around 10 p.m. in the city's western counties according to Roman's forecasts on NBC 5. The unsettled weather pattern will take hold during the late evening and overnight hours.
Wednesday sees a forecast of more widespread rain, with a few isolated thunderstorms in the morning. Despite the promise of a dry afternoon, rain is set to continue into the evening. Thursday morning will see passing storms, with the pattern continuing throughout the night.
As the weekend and Halloween draw closer, the chances for daily showers and storms will persist, with Alicia Roman indicating that temperatures to drop into the 40s as October 31 approaches as stated on NBC 5. Todays warmth, though temporary, offers a break before chilly autumn and winter temperatures arrive back.
