Farmer’s Almanac: When Illinois Will See First Frost

I learned from my parents that the first day of frost is important to know especially if you grow tomatoes. There are other reasons, too, that you may want to be aware of the first date of frost that was just predicted by the old-school weather geniuses at Farmer's Almanac.

Farmer's Almanac has been predicting the first date of frost for decades

This is the "Old" Farmer's Almanac we're talking about and not the "New" one. I have a hard time telling them apart, but that's not important here. What is vital is their new prediction of when Illinois will see the first frost for Fall 2025. The answer depends on exactly where in Illinois you live. For Chicago, they say you'll have to wait until November 1, 2025 for the first frosty day. I bet Lake Michigan will have something to say about that. For Champaign, they predict an early frost of October 19, 2025. Danville can expect their frost a few days before that on October 15, 2025. Rockford has one of the earliest frost dates in Illinois with a prediction of October 12, 2025. What about southern Illinois? Collinsville can expect their first frost on October 21, 2025 allegedly.

How does the Old Farmer's Almanac predict weather and is it accurate?

According to Old Farmer's Almanac's own words, they "unique, age-old formula that’s based on three scientific disciplines" plus they say they also look at historical information, weather lore and potential impact of climate change. Their forecasts date back to 1792 so history is on their side. Are they right about Illinois' first frost dates this Fall? We'll find out soon enough.