The First Snowflakes of the Season Will Arrive This Week
Weather Update
As the first week of November comes to a close, most of the Chicago area has been experiencing warmer-than-average temperatures. However, a major pattern flip is expected by midweek, which could bring the first snowflakes of the season by Wednesday night.
A Change in the Forecast
According to the National Weather Service, the average first trace of snow in Chicago is October 31st, while the average first measurable snowfall is November 18th. As the forecast stands now, it looks like we could get our first trace of snow on Wednesday night, and possibly our first measurable snow in parts of Chicagoland on Thursday.
Temperatures and Weather Conditions
Temperatures will be near 60 degrees on Tuesday, before a much colder airmass pours into Chicagoland on Wednesday. As the cooler air arrives, another low-pressure system is expected to move in, initially touching off scattered rain showers on Wednesday afternoon or evening. However, as temperatures drop Wednesday night, we’ll likely see snowflakes mixing in.
Freezing Temperatures
Temperatures will drop to near or below freezing on Wednesday night, marking the first time temperatures have dropped to the freezing mark in Chicago so far this fall. According to the National Weather Service, this is now the fifth-latest date for the first 32-degree or lower temperature in the cool season, and it’s the latest since 1931. Chicago will have multiple chances to reach 32 degrees or lower later this week through the weekend.
Snowfall Expectations
As for how much snow to expect, most areas will see a trace to just a couple tenths of an inch on grassy or elevated surfaces. With ground temperatures still above freezing, we are not expecting major travel impacts as this system swings through Wednesday night into Thursday.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the first snowflakes of the season are expected to arrive in Chicago this week, with a major pattern flip expected by midweek. Temperatures will drop to near or below freezing on Wednesday night, marking the first time temperatures have dropped to the freezing mark in Chicago so far this fall. While snowfall is expected, it is not expected to cause major travel impacts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the average first trace of snow in Chicago?
A: The average first trace of snow in Chicago is October 31st.
Q: What is the average first measurable snowfall in Chicago?
A: The average first measurable snowfall in Chicago is November 18th.
Q: When can we expect the first measurable snow in parts of Chicagoland?
A: We could see the first measurable snow in parts of Chicagoland on Thursday.
Q: Will the snow cause major travel impacts?
A: No, with ground temperatures still above freezing, we are not expecting major travel impacts as this system swings through Wednesday night into Thursday.
