Upper Midwest Braces for Chilly Halloween as First Snow Signs Begin to Show

CHICAGO — The Upper Midwest is bracing for a sharp Halloween cooldown as cold Canadian air sweeps south, bringing the first signs of winter across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and the Dakotas. Streets are slick from overnight rain, winds are picking up, and temperatures are falling fast — a combination that’s turning this weekend into a chilly prelude to the season ahead.

Cold Front Ushers in Early Flurries

The National Weather Service says residents in Grand Forks and nearby communities could see a mix of rain and wet snow by Friday morning. While no measurable accumulation is expected yet, this early hint of snow marks the beginning of the transition into winter weather patterns. Highs will dip into the low 40s by Saturday, and overnight temperatures could fall near freezing, especially in rural areas.

Weekend Forecast: Windy and Cold

Saturday and Sunday will feel blustery, with wind gusts up to 25 mph making outdoor activities seem colder than the thermometer reads. Trick-or-treaters and families attending weekend events are advised to bundle up as wind chills drop into the 30s. Saturday should remain mostly dry, while Sunday brings a brief warm-up into the upper 40s to low 50s before another cold push moves in next week.

November Could Bring First Measurable Snow

Meteorologists are keeping a close eye on early November weather models, which show an active northern jet stream developing. This pattern is expected to steer colder air and increase chances of measurable snowfall between November 8 and 21 across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and parts of the Dakotas. While timing and totals remain uncertain, the setup suggests that winter’s first widespread snow event may not be far away.

Prepare Now for Winter’s Arrival

Experts urge residents to take advantage of the remaining mild days to prepare before conditions worsen:

• Check vehicle antifreeze and tire pressure before overnight freezes become frequent.
• Store or cover outdoor furniture and clear gutters.
• Inspect home heating systems and replace filters.
• Keep winter kits in cars, including blankets, ice scrapers, and flashlights.

Winter’s Early Tease

While the Red River Valley and much of the Upper Midwest remain mostly quiet for now, the shift in weather is unmistakable. Each night grows colder, and each forecast looks more like winter’s arrival. It may still be Halloween season — but the region’s first real taste of winter is already in the air.

What do you think — is the Upper Midwest ready for its first snow of the season? Share your thoughts and stay updated with more local weather coverage at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.