The forecasted ideal temperatures will aid fast times at Chicago Marathon however it could be windy

Chilly, blustery weather is in store in Chicago on Sunday as tens of thousands of runners take to the streets for the city's annual marathon.

Around 1.7 million spectators are expected to line the course, which weaves it way through 29 neighborhoods in downtown Chicago.

A repeat of the weather from last's year marathon is not expected, when around 0.50 of an inch of rain fell throughout the day.

"A brief shower can't be completely ruled out. However, it will be dry for much of the day," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Carl Babinski said of this year's event, adding that there would be a mix of clouds and sun throughout the day.

Any shower that may move over the area should be light and brief, lasting less than 15 minutes.

The bigger story is likely to be the cool, windy conditions on tap for Sunday.

"Temperatures at the start of Sunday's Chicago Marathon will be in a range that most long-distance runners consider 'ideal', or in the middle to upper 40s," Babinski said.

Temperatures will be near the day's high of around 54 degrees Fahrenheit by the time the last of the racers cross the finish line during the afternoon hours. Chicago's average high for Oct. 13 is 64.

A west-southwesterly wind of 15-25 mph will be a crosswind for the runners for a majority of the course, but also a headwind and tailwind at times during the second half of the race.

While the tall buildings in the city can act as a buffer against the winds, they can also create a wind tunnel effect, causing winds to increase in between the skyscrapers.

The wind will act to make it feel even chillier than the actual air temperature. AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperatures are forecast to be in the middle to upper 30s F throughout the morning hours, which will require coats, hats and perhaps even gloves and scarves for spectators.

Light layers will be appropriate attire for race participants. This includes a long-sleeve, moisture-wicking shirt, a windproof running jacket, running pants and/or tights.

posted Thursday October 10th
by Renee Duff