New 2026 Illinois Fall Forecast Has Hoodie Lovers Smiling

If you've lived through the last few weeks in Northern Illinois, you've probably had the same thought I've had at least 100 times:

"I'm over summer."

Don't get me wrong, I enjoy a backyard barbecue and spending the day in my pool, but I'm also the kind of person who gets excited when I see posts like this on June 24:

and posts like these on July 5:

I think by now you understand that I am a fall and Christmas loving gal, so when I saw that the Old Farmer's Almanac had just released its fall weather predictions for 2026, I did a little happy dance.

Fall 2026 Weather Predictions for Illinois

I don't know what your idea of a perfect fall day looks like, but for me it's a sunshine-filled day that is cool enough to wear a hoodie while enjoying time outdoors.

Will Illinois see plenty of "perfect" fall days in 2026? Right now I'm cautiously optimistic.

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According to the Old Farmer's Almanac, much of the United States, including Illinois, is expected to experience cooler-than-average temperatures this fall.

Here is what they are predicting for the Northern Illinois area:

September will be cooler than average before temperatures return to near average in October. Rainfall is expected to be near average in September, then trend slightly below average in October.

Obviously, there's a lot of gray area in Illinois' long-range fall weather predictions, but if you're a summer lover who hates cooler weather, perhaps this information will make you feel better...

An article from NBC Chicago says:

This year's strengthening El Niño could also become the strongest on record by fall. In the most recent update, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Climate Prediction Center showed an 81% chance of a “very-strong El Niño”, with peak-strength expected in the October-November-December timeframe, possibly even earlier.

Historically, El Niño often brings a milder and drier winter to our region, so keep your fingers crossed!