Does Chicago Get Snow?
When And How Often Does It Snow In Chicago?
Why Chicago’s Snowfall Makes Winters A Season To Remember
Chicago is known for its unforgettable deep-dish pizza, stunning skyline, and extreme weather. In the Windy City, winter means freezing temperatures, icy winds, and lots of snow. However, how much snow does Chicago really get? When does it begin to snow, and what is its impact on daily life? If you want to know what winter in Chicago is like, this guide will give you a closer look at the city’s snowy season.
When to Expect the First Snowfall in Chicago
Chicago gets snow nearly every winter, with flurries, in some cases, starting as early as November. The heaviest snow falls from December through February, although March still occasionally sees snowstorms. Some winters are relatively mild, while some have record levels of snow. Chicago receives an average of 35 to 40 inches of snow a year, although it does vary. Some years bring just a skiff, others over 50 inches of snow. Snow, regardless of the amount, is a hallmark of Chicago winters and locals know how to get ready for its arrival.
Chicago’s Average Snowfall Per Year
Snowfall in Chicago varies per month. The first light snow of the season is around one to three inches and typically falls in November. Snowfall gradually increases in December, with the average being eight to ten inches for the month. Most snow falls in January, with an average between ten to twelve inches of snow, followed by February, with an average of nine to ten inches. Snow season starts to dwindle by March, with about five to seven inches. April snow is uncommon, but some years have seen snow fall with the highest amount reported in some years being up to an inch. The extended snow season means Chicagoans are acclimated to handling wintry conditions for nearly half the year.
The Cold Reality of Chicago Winters
With snow in Chicago comes freezing temperatures. Winter temperatures drop to below 20°F (-6°C) frequently, and wind chills can make it feel even colder. The lakefronts often have somewhat milder temperatures because of Lake Michigan, but they also suffer from lake-effect snow, which can supercharge total accumulations. It adds up to a mix of cold and snow that makes winter an arduous but defining feature of life in the city.
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How Snow Affects Chicagoans’ Daily Life
Snow does slow things down in the city, but life goes on. Schools are sometimes closed during major snowstorms, but most businesses, restaurants, and shops are open. Public transportation might be delayed, but it’s a reliable way to get around. Snowy roads make driving a little tricky, especially when the roads are icy. During winter storms, many Chicagoans use the L trains and buses instead of driving.
How Chicago Stays Prepared for Snowy Weather
Chicago prepares well for the winter weather. The city has a fleet of snowplows and salt trucks that run overnight and during the day, clearing not just the roads, but also the sidewalks. Public transit systems, including the CTA trains and buses, are still operating but can be delayed due to heavy snowfall. Residents and property owners are responsible for shoveling sidewalks in front of their homes and businesses, and many neighborhoods have informal dibs traditions, in which people claim their shoveled parking spots after a snowstorm by placing chairs or other objects in front of them. It’s an odd but practical ritual that captures the spirit of Chicago’s culture of community.
Even though Chicago is well-prepared for snow, too much of it causes problems. The coordination required to quickly clear major roadways and residential streets can be extensive, and during particularly intense storms, resources may be stretched thin. Residents commonly pitch in and take care of their driveways and sidewalks, a reflection of the city’s can-do spirit and camaraderie. Public Transit users may find icy platforms and delayed schedules a cold, toasty winter distraction from their daily grind. Yet in Chicago, residents face these challenges head-on, making the best of a season while bracing for its coldest stretches.
Fun Activities to Enjoy When It Snows in Chicago
Winter in Chicago isn’t just about shoveling and bundling up, it’s also brings with it plenty of fun things to do. Ice skating at Millennium Park’s McCormick Tribune Ice Rink is a popular winter activity among both locals and tourists. Sledding is also a popular activity, and the same places that work for ice skating, such as Soldier Field and different neighborhood parks, can make for fun family sledding.
Holiday light festivals at Lincoln Park Zoo and Navy Pier light up the nights while snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in local forest preserves put a whole new spin on the outdoors. Nothing beats warming up afterward with a cup of rich hot chocolate from local cafés such as Mindy’s Bakery.
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How to Layer Up for a Chicago Winter
If you are in Chicago to visit or live, preparing clothing to keep you warm is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need.
Heavy winter coat, better if insulated and windproof, given the strong winds.
Hat, gloves, and scarf to use against the cold wind.
Waterproof boots are a must-have to trudge through snow and slush.
Layered clothing to keep you warm when walking outdoors while remaining comfortable indoors.
Getting ready for the cold lets you better deal with winter, which makes for a safer season for residents and tourists alike.
Yes, Chicago receives a lot of snow, sometimes even more than residents would want. The winters here can be brutal, with heavy snowfall and frigid temperatures, even in the lower elevations, making everyday life difficult. However, Chicagoans are well acquainted with these conditions and we have figured out how to cope. Whether through well-maintained public transportation, reliable snow removal, enjoyable winter activities, or a community spirit, the city considers winter a part of its identity. Whether you love the snow or would rather stay inside with a warm beverage, snow is undoubtedly part of the Chicago experience.
At Deep Cleaning Chicago, we know how the winter season can take its toll on your business and home. Snow, salt, and slush may be brought into the house, making a mess that's difficult to deal with alone. That's why we provide specialized cleaning services to help keep your spaces clean in the snowy season. Whether that means deep carpet cleaning or addressing salt on your hardwood floors, our expert team is ready to help you keep your space fresh and inviting all winter. Call us today to book your next cleaning!