Indianapolis Ties Record for Warm October Days
Indianapolis hits 73 degrees as residents face an ongoing Air Quality Alert in Marion County.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Current Conditions
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Indianapolis reached 73 degrees on Wednesday, marking the 25th day this October that temperatures have hit or exceeded 70 degrees. Meanwhile, Marion County remains under an Air Quality Alert due to high ozone levels in the lower atmosphere.
Why it matters
The unseasonably warm and dry conditions have led to poor air quality, raising concerns about atmospheric ozone levels for local residents. The current pattern puts the city near a record for warm October days, which was set in 1963.
Indianapolis has recorded only a trace of rainfall since October 17, contributing to a 12-day dry spell. Total rainfall since September 1 stands at 2.72 inches, which is 3.32 inches below the seasonal average.
The details
A cold front is expected to move into central Indiana on Thursday, which may shift the current weather pattern. Residents should be aware that high ozone levels are affecting the area through at least Thursday morning.
Timeline
1963: Record set for most days at or above 70 degrees in October at 27 days.
September 1, 2026: Start of the current measurement period for rainfall.
October 17, 2026: Beginning of the city's ongoing 12-day dry spell.
October 28, 2026: Indianapolis reached a high temperature of 73 degrees.
November 1, 2026: Rain chances begin to increase.
Seasonal Patterns
Indianapolis is currently tracking against the 1963 record of 27 days at or above 70 degrees for the month of October. The city's current count of 25 such days indicates a significant departure from typical autumn cooling trends.
Residents should heed the Air Quality Alert currently in effect for Marion County and limit strenuous outdoor activity if they are sensitive to ozone. Drivers and homeowners should prepare for clocks to turn back one hour on Sunday morning as Daylight Saving Time concludes.
The takeaway
The unusually warm October has brought both mild temperatures and elevated ozone risks to the Indianapolis area. Residents should monitor local weather forecasts as a cold front arrives and the region shifts toward standard time this weekend.
Further reading
For more information on local weather updates, visit the Indianapolis Current Conditions page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Fox 59.
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