We know the question on your mind, Hoosiers — when’s it going to get cool again?
Thanks to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center , we know what temperatures and precipitation trends to expect in our city for September, October, and November.
While exact weather conditions typically can’t be predicted more than a week in advance, here’s a seasonal outlook to help you prepare for what fall will bring.
Reminder: The first day of fall is on Saturday, Sept. 23.
Here’s what we can expect this fall.
Graphic via NOAA
🌡️ Temperature
Think average. This fall, Indy has an equal chance of temperatures being higher than normal or lower than normal. The Climate Prediction Center also says a moderate El Niño is likely for this fall — which is when warmer than normal temperatures are in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. So, we’ll see how this pans out for central Indiana.
🌨️ Precipitation
Expect average precipitation. Indy has an equal chance of seeing above or below normal rainfall amounts this fall.
☀️ Drought
Drought conditions are expected to likely develop for much of central Indiana this season.
September
September typically brings a welcoming transition from the heat of summer to the cool of autumn in Indy. While temperatures historically remain high at about 75.9°F, there’s a decrease towards the end of the month.
You’ll also notice the city gets darker earlier as the days shorten, bringing a clear change in pace from the lingering summer daylight — a good reminder to start cozying up indoors or gathering around a bonfire.
October
For some of us, October is the official start of fall because it typically carries the essence of autumn + you really start to see and feel the temperature change — an intermediate period between the warm summer and brisk winter. As temperatures moderate, falling to an average low of 47.3°F, we’ll get a refreshing chill after a very hot summer.
November
Make sure you dress in layers. Indy in November usually brings a significant drop in temperature, bracing for the upcoming winter. With the mercury dropping to an average low of 36.1°F, the city dons its winter attire + a sense of anticipation for the impending holiday season.