As summer winds down and the leaves start to change color, many Chicagoans may be wondering when the fall weather will truly set in. Even though we may be feeling a slight chill in the air this weekend, don’t pack away your summer clothes just yet. According to NBC 5 Storm Team Meteorologist Kevin Jeanes, we still have a long stretch of warm weather ahead of us.
Jeanes looked back at the last 10 years to determine when Chicago had its first stretch of three or more days with temperatures below 61 degrees. Surprisingly, the dates varied greatly from year to year. In 2014, the cooler temperatures hit as early as September 11th, while in 2018, we didn’t experience sweater weather until the end of October.
On average, Chicagoans can expect the first stretch of chilly days to begin around October 11th. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean we should be bracing ourselves for the cold just yet. Even in years when the temperatures dip early, there is still a chance for highs in the 80s in October.
In fact, the average last 80-degree day in Chicago is October 5th. So, for those who are still holding onto summer, you still have some time to soak up the warm weather. But for those eagerly anticipating the arrival of sweater weather, the average last 75-degree day is October 17th, and the average last 70-degree day is October 29th.
Now, the question on everyone’s mind is, when can we expect the first snowfall? The answer to this question is a bit more unpredictable. The 30-year average for Chicago’s first measurable snow (0.1 inch or greater) is November 18th. However, in recent years, the first snowfall has been all over the place. Last year, Chicago experienced its warmest winter in 92 years, but it still managed to snow on Halloween. And in 2021, the first snow didn’t arrive until December 28th.
But the unpredictability doesn’t stop there. Jeanes also notes that while the Pacific is currently in a neutral state, there is a 74% chance of La Niña conditions setting in from November to January. This could potentially bring a wetter and colder winter for Chicago.
But before we start panicking about the arrival of cold weather, let’s not forget to enjoy the change of seasons. Fall officially begins on September 22nd with the autumnal equinox. This is a time for pumpkin spice lattes, cozy sweaters, and beautiful foliage. So, let’s embrace the change and make the most of this transitional season.
In the meantime, don’t rush to put away your summer wardrobe just yet. We still have some warm weather ahead of us. And even when the temperatures do start to drop, there is still a chance for some sporadic warm days. So, let’s savor every last bit of summer while it lasts.
As we prepare for the arrival of fall, let’s also remember to set our clocks back on November 7th for Daylight Saving Time. However, not all states will be participating in this time change. Hawaii, Arizona, and Puerto Rico have opted out of Daylight Saving Time, and there are talks of other states following suit in the future.
So, when can we expect the true “fall feel” to set in? Well, as we’ve learned, it could be anytime from early September to the end of October. But one thing is for sure, Chicago’s weather is always full of surprises. So, let’s enjoy the warm weather while it lasts and embrace the change of seasons with open arms.
