How Bad Is Winter In Chicago?
Why Chicago Winters Are Bad Than You Think
A Guide For Surviving Chicago's Freezing Months
If you have not been in Chicago during winter, you are in for a ride. The cold, the wind, and the snowstorms that last for what seems like an eternity make it one of the toughest winters in the country. While some people enjoy the “A Winter Wonderland” concept, the majority has to battle for their lives. So, how bad is it really? Let’s talk about it and how to battle the cold winds.
The Cold Is Merciless And Harsh
Chicago is not an unknown territory to cold temperatures. In the middle of winter, for instance, temperatures can go as low as zero. But the real killer? The wind chill. This one sears through the fabric of clothes almost as if it were a sword and feels much colder than it has any right to be. They tell you to bundle up and that you’ll be okay and the next minute,. Next, your fingers are like ice and your face burns as if you have just been whipped by the hand of nature.
Locals know the drill: wear clothes in layers, cover all the skin parts that can be exposed, and walk quickly. However, everyone, even the strongest residents of Chicago, sometimes surrenders to the cold. At some point, it just becomes overwhelming.
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The Wind Will Ruin Your Day
Have you ever heard of lake effect wind? It is when arctic winds blow in from Lake Michigan, channeled through the city proper into a wind tunnel. The wind that is found in Chicago is not just powerful; it is constant. It is possible to feel that one gust is enough to knock the wind out of you, quite literally.
There are some days it seems like the wind is out to get you. And if you’re not careful, it might just take your hat, scarf, or any other accessory that is not well fixed.
Snowstorms Can Shut Everything Down
Chicago snow is always a gamble. Some days it’s beautifully light and fluffy, which is a perfect addition for the winter. Other days? It drops down so quickly that roads are hidden, cars are submerged, and the city comes to a standstill.
Blizzards are not rare and when they come, they come in full force. Schools shut down, flights are grounded, and the sidewalks become a children’s water park. Shoveling becomes a daily exercise and if your car is parked on the road, then forget about getting it out.
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The Infamous Dibs Parking System
When it comes to parking, winter in Chicago is best known for the ‘dibs’ phenomenon. There is an unwritten law that if you snowplow a parking spot, that spot belongs to you. To lay a claim on it, people in Chicago put almost any item out there—be it a chair, a crate, or even a broken piece of furniture. I promise you, nobody wants to mess with Dibs. Stealing someone’s parking might result in flat tires or, at the very least, an irate neighbor.
Ice Is Everywhere And It Is A Hidden Danger
Ice is sneaky. It lives in freshly fallen snow, it merges with pavement, and walking becomes a dangerous activity. Black ice is extremely deceptive: it appears as if the road is wet and as soon as you put your foot down, you either slide or trip.
People in Chicago learn to navigate the “penguin” walk—taking short and slow steps to prevent falling. But, however much one may try to avoid them, one will stumble at some time. It is almost a tradition in the winter season to do this.
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Surviving The Worst Of It
Now, how do people manage with such harsh winters? Chicagoans are experts at enduring the cold season and can teach a thing or two about surviving the winter. Here are some recommended ways:
Layers are life. If you believe that one layer of paint is sufficient, you are quite wrong. Thermal stockings, gloves and scarves, and hats are a must-have.
Invest in good boots. Snow and slush will definitely spoil your mood if you are not wearing the right shoes that are waterproof.
Stay indoors when possible. If there is a blizzard out there, don’t risk it and don’t be a hero and go out there.
Hot drinks are a necessity. Sugary drinks, hot cocoa, tea, or coffee—whatever you prefer to keep yourself warm.
What Can Be Positive About Winters In Chicago?
To be honest, there are some positive aspects of this whole thing. The city is beautiful, especially when the snow has just fallen and has not been tainted by anyone’s footsteps. Sledding at the skate in Millennium Park, sipping hot cocoa at Christkindlmarket, and watching the lights come on in the city during the holiday season are special.
Also, for those who like winter activities, there are lots of skiing, sledding, and ice skating opportunities. Let’s be real here; there is nothing quite as satisfying as coming inside to a warm house after being out in the snow.
Cleaning Up The Winter Mess
Once winter finally starts to fade, Chicagoans face another battle: the post-winter cleanup. Seasons of salt, slush, and dirt make houses and offices look dull and really require cleaning of the premises. Deep Cleaning Chicago helps individuals to clean up the dust and clutter that has built up in homes over the winter season.
The Truth About Chicago When Winter Is Simply Harsh
Chicago winters are no joke. They test your patience, your endurance, and your tolerance to cold weather. However, the weather in Chicago is still not so friendly and the people of Chicago never lose their spirit. It’s not just for aesthetics either; they wear coats, they battle through blizzards, and yes, they even learn how to smile during the winter mayhem.
If you come in the winter, then you have to expect it to be like that. Put on some warm clothes, expect the wind, and if you wish, you can walk like a penguin. As is well known, Chicago winter is not merely cold; it is harsh.
