🍂 2026 First Frost Dates for Des Plaines, Illinois 60016
The first 36°F frost date is 30% likely to be on Oct 11. (See detailed probabilities below.)
The first 32°F light freeze date is 30% likely to be on Oct 24. (See detailed probabilities below.)
(See also 🌷 Last Spring Frost Dates.)
First frost date probabilities for Des Plaines, IL are based on historical climate data.
Always check your local forecast for the most up-to-date frost warnings.
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What is a First Frost Date?
The first fall frost signals the end of your local growing season. This date serves as an important deadline for gardeners and farmers. You'll need to complete harvesting before this point. Annuals and other tender plants will die back when frost hits, and perennial plants will enter their dormant phase for winter. Meanwhile, it's time to enjoy a cup of hot cocoa and a cozy sweater—and start planning your spring garden!
How to use the First Frost Date?
Watch your local weather forecasts in early fall to predict the first frost date. Harvest tender crops and protect vulnerable plants before frost arrives. For late-summer plantings, count backward from your area's average first frost date. This ensures your crops have enough time to mature. Keep track of when frost actually occurs in your garden each year. This helps you identify protected spots where the growing season might last longer.
First Frost Date Probabilities
| Probability of frost (36°F) on or before... | |
|---|---|
| 10% chance | Oct 3 |
| 20% chance | Oct 8 |
| 30% chance | Oct 11 |
| 40% chance | Oct 15 |
| 50% chance | Oct 18 |
| 60% chance | Oct 21 |
| 70% chance | Oct 23 |
| 80% chance | Oct 26 |
| 90% chance | Oct 30 |
| Probability of light freeze (32°F) on or before... | |
|---|---|
| 10% chance | Oct 15 |
| 20% chance | Oct 20 |
| 30% chance | Oct 24 |
| 40% chance | Oct 26 |
| 50% chance | Oct 28 |
| 60% chance | Oct 31 |
| 70% chance | Nov 3 |
| 80% chance | Nov 5 |
| 90% chance | Nov 11 |
| Probability of moderate freeze (28°F) on or before... | |
|---|---|
| 10% chance | Oct 27 |
| 20% chance | Nov 1 |
| 30% chance | Nov 2 |
| 40% chance | Nov 5 |
| 50% chance | Nov 7 |
| 60% chance | Nov 10 |
| 70% chance | Nov 13 |
| 80% chance | Nov 17 |
| 90% chance | Nov 22 |
| Probability of moderate hard freeze (24°F) on or before... | |
|---|---|
| 10% chance | Nov 3 |
| 20% chance | Nov 7 |
| 30% chance | Nov 11 |
| 40% chance | Nov 14 |
| 50% chance | Nov 17 |
| 60% chance | Nov 20 |
| 70% chance | Nov 23 |
| 80% chance | Nov 27 |
| 90% chance | Dec 2 |
| Probability of hard freeze (20°F) on or before... | |
|---|---|
| 10% chance | Nov 10 |
| 20% chance | Nov 15 |
| 30% chance | Nov 19 |
| 40% chance | Nov 23 |
| 50% chance | Nov 26 |
| 60% chance | Nov 29 |
| 70% chance | Dec 2 |
| 80% chance | Dec 6 |
| 90% chance | Dec 14 |
| Probability of severe hard freeze (16°F) on or before... | |
|---|---|
| 10% chance | Nov 18 |
| 20% chance | Nov 25 |
| 30% chance | Nov 28 |
| 40% chance | Dec 1 |
| 50% chance | Dec 3 |
| 60% chance | Dec 7 |
| 70% chance | Dec 12 |
| 80% chance | Dec 17 |
| 90% chance | Dec 23 |
Agricultural climatic data from weather station: CHICAGO OHARE INTL AP (USW00094846:frost)