Temperatures reach 80 at O'Hare Airport (Chicago) After Cold Spell Ends

1-Hour Old Conditions (Black # is temperature in biggest image)

Temperatures have reached 80 degrees at O'Hare International Airport, Chicago after a cold spell made many, if not all Chicagoans, shiver for several days. Today, sunshine covers the Midwest region, with temperatures in 80's and 70's around the entire area. However, at the same time, Caribou, Maine is experiencing temperatures dipping down into the 40's and may only get worse as the night comes over the country and cools it all down.

ECMWF showing potential for cold blast into Great Lakes; Could Winter be near?

The latest ECMWF model is showing two strong low pressure systems quickly putting an end to the 80's currently being reached over the Midwest and instead bringing in potentially temperatures near freezing levels. With the forecasted strength of these two lows, I wouldn't be surprised if it turned out. The eventual strength may depend on the forecast tropical system that may develop in the Florida region and potentially move inland at some point.

GFS now showing Florida to be in crosshairs for Tropical Threat

The GFS is indicating that Florida could be affected by this newly named tropical system. We continue to advise that people up and down the East Coast, Florida and the Gulf Coast keep an eye on this system. I do believe that a system will form in the next week or two, as the models have been trending this for days.

Accuweather believes Great Lakes will get worst winter. http://www.accuweather.com/blogs/news/story/55890/accuweathercom-winter-20112012.asp

October 5- Place to Be

October 5th's Place to Be is Grantsburg, IL