Does it snow in Chicago? The answer is YES, it does snow in Chicago.
Chicago, also known as the “windy city,” is frequently linked with a frigid temperature.
That’s why you’d be right to be curious what Chicago winters are like and how much snow you can expect in the state’s largest metropolis, Illinois.
Is it possible to get snow in Chicago? Yes, Chicago gets snow, but huge snowstorms are rare, and the majority of the snow is simply a light dusting.
In this article, I’ll answer in detail the question, “does it snow in Chicago?”
Let’s get started.
So, Does it Snow in Chicago?
As previously mentioned, the answer is YES.
Chicago is the third-most populated city in the United States, with a population of over 2.7 million people living on its 607.43 square kilometer landmass.
Chicago is a diversified city known for architectural masterpieces like the Willis Tower, which attract millions of visitors each year.
Blue Island is the highest point in Chicago at 672 feet (205 meters), while Lake Michigan is the lowest point at 578 feet (176 meters).
Does it, however, snow in Chicago? And if so, when does it usually start snowing in Chicago?
Overview of Chicago Climate and Weather
Chicago has a hot-summer humid continental climate, which implies that the city has four distinct seasons.
The summers are warm and humid, with harsher temperatures inland.
The seasons of spring and fall can be cold and warm, with varied temperatures and mainly sunny skies.
Chicago is frigid in the winter, and snow falls frequently, with a severe wind chill.
Temperatures are around 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 degrees Celsius).
In comparison, the rest of Illinois has a typical continental climate, with warm summers and chilly winters.
I recommend that you visit in the fall or spring to escape harsh weather conditions.
It is worth noting, in terms of climate, that big businesses in Illinois can be severely impacted by weather variations.
This is because crop yields are dependent on excellent circumstances, and many crops in Illinois do not receive irrigation.
Extreme weather may have an impact on everything from airports to trucks in Illinois, causing a domino effect in the state’s manufacturing business.
When Does it Snow in Chicago?
Snowfall is a recurring characteristic of Chicago during the winter, which begins in December and lasts until February.
The city, on the other hand, frequently reports its first snowfall in November and the last as late as May.
Throughout the year, Chicago accumulates 13.9 inches (353 mm) of snow after 40.9 snowfall days.
What Months Does it Snow in Chicago?
November
Does it snow in Chicago in November?
In Chicago, November marks the end of autumn and the first month of snowfall.
Despite the fact that it is not yet winter, temperatures in the city are cold, with highs of 49.6 degrees Fahrenheit (9.8 degrees Celsius) and lows of 35.2 degrees Fahrenheit (1.8 degrees Celsius).
The city receives an average of four snowfall days per year, with snow accumulation reaching 1.42 inches (36 mm).
December
Does it snow in Chicago in December?
In Chicago, the winter season begins in December.
Temperatures in the city drop from November levels and occasionally go below freezing.
Average monthly temperatures in the city range from 37.7 degrees Fahrenheit (3.2 degrees Celsius) to 25.3 degrees Fahrenheit (-3.7 degrees Celsius).
Snow falls on average every 7.5 days in the city, accumulating to a depth of 2.52 inches (64 mm).
January
Does it snow in Chicago in January?
In Chicago, January is the coldest and snowiest month.
Temperatures remain below zero, ranging from 29.7 degrees Fahrenheit (-1.3 degrees Celsius) to 19.5 degrees Fahrenheit (-6.9 degrees Celsius).
Snow falls on average eight days per year in the city, accumulating to a depth of 10.8 inches (274.32 mm).
February
Does it snow in Chicago in February?
Despite the fact that it is the last month of winter in Chicago, the chilly weather persists.
Temperatures have risen slightly, but conditions in the city remain subzero.
In February, highs in Chicago range from 36.8 degrees Fahrenheit (2.7 degrees Celsius) to 22.9 degrees Fahrenheit (-5.1 degrees Celsius).
In February, Chicago receives 9.1 inches (231.14 mm) of snow on average after six snowfall days.
March
Does it snow in Chicago in March?
March, the beginning of the month of spring in Chicago, ushers in a respite from the harsh winter.
Temperatures are mild, ranging from 47.9 degrees Fahrenheit (8.8 degrees Celsius) to 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius).
Throughout the month, Chicago accumulates 5.6 inches (142.24 mm) of snow after an average of four snowfall days.
Where Does it Snow in Chicago?
Snow covers the entire city of Chicago.
However, the Chicago Midway Airport receives the greatest snowfall, with an annual total of 37.1 inches (942.34 millimeters).
The Botanical Gardens, on the other side, receives the least snowfall, with an annual snowfall of 33.4 inches (848.36 millimeters).
How Bad Is Winter in Chicago?
Severe weather in Illinois has been known to have disastrous repercussions.
Each year, floods, winter storms, tornadoes, and lightning kill 20 to 30 people, according to the State Climatologist Office.
So, how bad is Chicago’s winter?
Locals frequently refer to two types of Chicago winters: chilly and snowy. Interestingly, city dwellers have acquired a liking for the cold since “you can always put another layer on” in freezing temperatures.
Even yet, the humid, hot summer months are the most uncomfortable.
In comparison to Cleveland and Buffalo, Chicago gets less snow in winter, but the season is noticeably harsher here than in coastal towns like Washington, DC or New York City.
The cold, not the snow, is what makes Chicago renowned.
Winter temperatures in the northern United States can fluctuate greatly and fall close to 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
However, the average daily maximum temperature at O’Hare in January is 31 degrees Fahrenheit (-0.6 degrees Celsius), which is considered a pleasant winter temperature in most areas.
The city’s two meteorological measurement sites record the coldest nights 5.5 times per year at Midway and 8.2 times per year at O’Hare, when temperatures drop below 0 F (-18 C).
However, this is more common in the suburbs.
Does Chicago Experience Snowstorms?
The answer is YES.
Heavy snowstorms that drop over 10 inches (25 cm) of snow in 1 to 3 days might be expected every three years.
It will normally snow when the temperatures are milder, therefore there will be snow earlier in the meteorological winter (in December), and then it will diminish as the weather becomes colder (in January and February).
However, minor snowfalls have occurred as early as October and as late as May.
These typically do not endure long and turn wet and slushy really quickly.
Ski Resorts in Chicago
Chicago skiing activities may not be comparable to those in the east or west of the United States.
During the winter, though, it is still popular with tourists and snow sports lovers.
Chestnut Mountain Resort
Chestnut Mountain Resort is a ski and snowboarding resort located in Galena, Illinois.
The resort features 29 trails, 3 terrain parks, and 2 tubing hills, offering a variety of activities for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Chestnut Mountain Resort also offers other activities such as ziplining, Segway tours, and hiking trails.
The resort boasts a variety of lodging options, including hotel rooms, condos, and villas, making it a popular destination for families and groups.
Restaurants and bars are located on-site, including an upscale mountain top dining experience at the Summit restaurant.
Chestnut Mountain Resort is open during the winter season from late November to early April.
Physical Address: 8700 W. Chestnut Mountain Rd Galena, IL 61036
Alpine Valley Ski Resort
This ski resort is located in southwestern Michigan, about a two-hour drive from Chicago. The resort has been in operation for over 40 years and has 11 ski slopes, five lifts, and a 225-foot vertical drop.
The resort features four chairlifts, two rope tows, and a funnel lift for children, making it easy for skiers to access all the trails.
In addition to skiing, the resort offers snowboarding, tubing, and a terrain park for freestyle skiing and snowboarding.
Alpine Valley also has a ski school where beginners can take lessons from experienced instructors.
The resort features a lodge with a restaurant, bar, and gift shop offering a variety of items to visitors.
The resort has a range of accommodation options available including hotels, villas, and private chalets, providing visitors with a comfortable place to stay during their visit.
Physical Address: W2501 County Road D Elkhorn, WI 53121
Swiss Valley Ski & Snowboard Area
This ski resort is about a two-hour drive from Chicago in southwestern Michigan.
The resort boasts 11 ski slopes, five lifts, and a 225-foot vertical drop and has been in service for almost 40 years.
Swiss Valley provides a variety of snow sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, as well as instruction and rentals for beginners.
The ski area also has a terrain park for snowboarders and skiers, featuring boxes, rails, and jumps.
Swiss Valley has a cozy lodge catering to skiers’ needs, including food, beverages, and restrooms, making it a comfortable experience for visitors.
The ski area also runs activities like races, contests, and night skiing to give an even more interesting experience for tourists.
Swiss Valley features well-maintained slopes, quick lifts, and courteous staff, making it a wonderful choice for a winter holiday.
Final Thoughts on the Question: “Does it Snow in Chicago?”
Does it snow in Chicago? The answer is YES.
Chicago, located in the Midwest region of the United States, is well-known for its harsh and cold winters which often bring snow and ice.
The city receives an average annual snowfall of around 37 inches, with the snow season typically occurring from November to March.
The heavy snowfall during winters in Chicago can often lead to disruption of daily life, transportation issues, and even danger on the roads.
However, it also creates opportunities for winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding and ice-skating.
So, if you want to experience a winter like no other, head over to Chicago for a unique experience.