Chicago, IL – Much of the Midwest is set to experience an early taste of fall as forecasters predict below-normal temperatures during the first full week of September.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Omaha, the Climate Prediction Center’s 8-to-14-day outlook, released Tuesday, shows a 40% to 50% chance of cooler-than-average conditions from September 3 to 9. The outlook covers a wide stretch from Colorado to West Virginia, including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.
Early Start to Meteorological Fall
Meteorologists call this period the “shoulder season,” marking the transition from summer to fall. While September 1 officially begins meteorological fall, this year’s outlook suggests the seasonal shift could arrive sooner than usual.
“September 2025 looks like it may begin even cooler than it typically does,” the NWS noted in its update.
Cooler air masses pushing down from the north are expected to keep daytime highs below seasonal averages, while overnight lows could drop sharply, especially in rural areas.
Regional Temperature Differences
The cooler trend won’t impact the entire country equally. Forecasters expect:
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Pacific Northwest, Florida, and Northeast Coast → Warmer-than-normal temperatures
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Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee → Near-seasonal conditions
What It Means for Residents and Agriculture
For Midwest residents, the cooler air could provide relief from lingering summer heat and spark an early start to fall activities. However, the shift may also impact agriculture, potentially requiring early harvest adjustments in some areas.
The NWS advises residents to prepare for fluctuating weather conditions as September begins, as temperature swings could be more noticeable than usual.
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