Freeze warning expanded to include all of northern Illinois

A FREEZE WARNING has been issued for all of northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. This will run from 1AM-9AM Wednesday as temperatures look to fall into the upper 20s and low 30s. 

Based on climatological data, this lines up well with Rockford's average first fall freeze which typically occurs near October 13th. Before heading to bed this evening, make sure your sprinkler system and your hoses are taken care of to avoid damage. Cover up fragile plants that may be susceptible to the freeze with a light linen blanket or move them into a garage or shed if they’re potted plants.

Temperatures remain seasonably cool for Wednesday thanks to a chilly but light northwest wind. Expect afternoon highs to peak in the upper 50s. Though not as widespread, frost will be likely Wednesday night as temperatures land near the 32° mark. 

 

This crisp, November-like air is scheduled to say adieu, aufwuedersehen, gesundheit, farewell (Willy Wonka quote) by Thursday as afternoon highs make the climb towards the 70° mark. 

Southwest flow and extremely dry conditions will remain in place into the weekend, allowing highs to climb further from average. Expect low 70s Friday and Saturday, then upper 70s Sunday.