Temperatures have significantly cooled down this week across Illinois, luring many residents into a false sense of hope that fall has finally arrived.

But despite the nearing return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte and the chillier evenings, temperatures are expected to heat back up again this weekend. This confusing phenomenon is sometimes referred to as a "false fall."

Here's what that means, and when Illinois residents can expect true autumn weather.

What is a 'false fall' and how does it impact the environment?

AccuWeather's lead long-range expert Paul Pastelok told USA TODAY that these early cool temperatures help signal to the trees that fall is coming, describing the phenomenon as "a long preview."

"Trees are very smart," he said, explaining that the shortening days are also

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