Mother Nature’s Tricks: Chilly Temps, Gusty Winds, and Snow Threaten Halloween Plans

Mother Nature has a few tricks up her sleeve this Halloween! Millions of trick-or-treaters across the country could face a spooky mix of chilly temperatures, gusty winds, rain and even mountain snow as they head out in search of candy Saturday, October 31.

AccuWeather expert meteorologists say much of the East Coast should escape the rain on Halloween, but some costumes may need an extra layer underneath. Farther west, developing storms could bring a few unwelcome surprises to holiday festivities.

“Halloween is one of those holidays when the weather can make a big difference in how families plan their evening,” said AccuWeather lead long-range forecaster Paul Pastelok. “With chilly conditions expected across the Northeast and Great Lakes and the possibility of rain in the Plains, some families may need to rethink what goes underneath or over their costumes. A little preparation can go a long way, especially for younger children spending an hour or two outdoors.”

Halloween Weekend Forecast: October 29-31

• Thursday, October 29: Brisk and chilly weather settles over Chicago, Detroit, and much of the Great Lakes. Showers will cross parts of the Northeast, especially Boston, New York City and Philadelphia. Rain is also possible in the Pacific Northwest and south Texas.
• Friday, October 30: Rain and mountain snow could spread across the Southwest and Rockies, including areas near Salt Lake City, Phoenix and Albuquerque. It will be breezy and chilly across the Northeast, while Atlanta, Charlotte and Raleigh dry out. Some showers can cross in the evening in the Florida Peninsula and the Pacific Northwest. Hold on to your scary masks in the Dakotas, where the wind could be quite gusty.
• Saturday, October 31: Jackets may be a costume essential from Detroit to Boston, but most of the East Coast should stay dry. Some showers and possibly a few thunderstorms could crash Halloween plans around Dallas and Oklahoma City, while showers and mountain snow threaten parts of the Southwest and Rockies.

Elsewhere, mainly dry but breezy conditions are expected across the northern Plains and Upper Midwest, including Billings, Rapid City and Minneapolis. Gusty winds could add an extra chill for trick-or-treaters, while southern Florida, including Miami, could see a few showers and stormy conditions. Temperatures across parts of the Southwest and central Rockies may also run below historical averages.

Is There Tropical Trouble Brewing Before Halloween?

One potential weather trick worth watching is one that is brewing near the Gulf Coast.

AccuWeather expert meteorologists are monitoring the possibility of a tropical system crossing northern Mexico and toward the western Gulf around October 29-30. If this occurs, it could potentially bring heavier rainfall to parts of southern Texas, including communities near Laredo and the Rio Grande Valley.

While the system’s development and track remain uncertain, heavier rain would certainly complicate Halloween preparations and outdoor festivities.