Does It Snow A Lot In Chicago?
Does Chicago Really Get A Lot Of Snow?
Everything You Need To Know About Snow In Chicago
Chicago is famous for many things: deep-dish pizza, the giant silver Bean, and, of course, its freezing winters. But does it really snow a lot in Chicago? The short answer: yes! If you've ever spent a winter in the Windy City, you know that snow is a big part of life.
On average, Chicago sees about 37 inches of snow every year. That is over three feet of snow falling from the sky! In some years, it snows even more, especially when powerful winter storms hit. So if you're planning to visit Chicago in the winter, be sure to bundle up!
When Does It Snow In Chicago?
In Chicago, snow usually starts falling in November and can last well into April. That's almost half the year with a possibility of snow! But the heaviest snowfall is usually during December to February when the temperatures are below freezing.
Sometimes, Chicago sees its initial snow in the month of October, while other years it doesn't snow until the month of December. But the moment the actual winter begins, or at least semi-actual in most cases, Chicagoans learn to prepare their selves for months of cold and snowy days.
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How Cold Does It Get In Chicago?
And when it snows in Chicago, freezing temperatures also prevail. In January, considered the coldest month, it always so happens that the temperature is below 20°F (-6°C); sometimes on certain days, with wind chill included, the temperatures go below zero!
This is the reason why Chicagoans wear heavy coats, scarves, gloves, and warm boots during winter. If you are not well-dressed, even going out feels like an arctic adventure!
Biggest Snowstorms Ever To Hit Chicago
Chicago has seen some giant snowfalls throughout the years, so huge that even schools, business houses, and airports had to be shut down.
One of the worst blizzards on record for Chicago happened in January 1967. In a single day, the city got buried under a snowfall of 23 inches. Can you think about waking up and finding almost two feet of snow outside your door? People had to dig their cars out, and the whole city came to a stop.
More recently, a massive snowstorm occurred in 2011, in which 20.2 inches of snow fell due to a powerful blizzard in Chicago. It was intense enough to leave hundreds of cars stranded on Lake Shore Drive, thus keeping the people in their cars for hours.
Snowstorms like these don't happen every year, and in those rare periods it does snow considerably, Chicago turns into something very much like a winter wonderland—at least, until it's time to begin shoveling the sidewalks!
What Happens When It Snows A Lot?
It is also a lot of work, on the side of fair snow scenery, in Chicago. After every big snowfall, people shovel their sidewalks and driveways to dig out their car. The city also sends out plows and salt trucks to handle the roads so that driving could be safer.
One rather amusing winter tradition that some neighborhoods practice in Chicago is called "Dibs." When people take the trouble to shovel out parking spots on the street, they place chairs, cones, or even laundry baskets in the space to save it. This warns all others around, "Hey, I worked hard for this spot, so don't take it!" Some feel that this is a fair thing to do, but others believe parking spots should be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
For businesses, it means extra cleaning, too! Many companies hire services like Deep Cleaning Chicago to help keep their spaces tidy and safe during the winter months. Snow and slush can make floors messy, so professional cleaners help keep things spotless.
Does The Snow Ever Go Away?
Yes! No matter how cold the winter may get in Chicago, the snow just does not hang around. Before you can even notice, by March and April, the weather has been warming up real nice, and snow disappears. Of course, every year is different in Chicago; they can still spring snowstorms upon people, and it's just like one final bash at winter to see out what remains before letting the warmth truly break into town.
Once spring takes over officially, the snow disappears and the parks and streets of Chicago start amassing green grass and blooms of flowers. The heavy winter coats go back in the closet, and finally some sun can be enjoyed!
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Is It Fun To Live In A City With Snow?
Not everyone hates shoveling and freezing temperatures. In fact, many Chicagoans love winter. There are a lot of fun things to do in the snow, including:
Sledding at Soldier Field and Warren Park.
Ice skating at the celebrated Millennium Park rink.
Build snowmen and have a snowball fight in the backyard.
Winter in Chicago means holiday lights, cozy cafes, and hot chocolate—all things that would not be nearly as magical if there weren't snow on the ground.
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Should You Go To Chicago In Winter?
If one does not mind cold weather and snow, Chicago is a magical place to visit in winter. See the white sparkling snow across the city, go ice skating downtown, or warm up with a hot cup of cocoa. However, if you're not a fan of the cold, you might want to plan your trip for spring or summer when the weather is warmer and you can explore the city without bundling up in layers.
Snow In Chicago Is No Joke!
So, does it snow a lot in Chicago? Yes! The city gets tons and tons of snow every year, and winters can be freezing and very unpredictable. But even though it can get rough having to put up with that much snow, Chicagoans make the most of winter, from fun outdoors to cozy days inside. Whether you love snow or prefer sunny skies, one thing's for sure: Chicago winters are unforgettable!
