Calmer Days Ahead Following Chicago’s First Snowfall of the Season

Chicago area’s first snowfall of the season is in the books, and it didn’t disappoint.

Snow lovers rejoiced at the sight of moderate to heavy snow that began falling after daybreak on Thursday, lasting through the early afternoon.

In just a few hours, most of Chicagoland picked up 2–4 inches of snow. Snow rates exceeded one-inch per hour at times. Roadways quickly became snow-covered and commuters dealt with slow travel times and slick conditions.

The snow quickly transitioned over to rain during the afternoon and temperatures were forecast to warm to near 40 degrees on Thursday night. Most, if not all, of the snow will likely melt tonight and Friday.

Chicago-area Snow Totals

• Evanston: 4.2
• Edgewater (Chicago): 4.0
• West Ridge (Chicago): 4.0
• Wauconda: 4.0
• Bull Valley: 3.9
• Lake Bluff: 3.7
• Garfield Park (Chicago): 3.6
• Gurnee: 3.5
• Lynwood: 3.3
• Park City: 3.2
• Mokena: 3.0
• Portage: 3.0
• Vernon Hills: 3.0
• Norwood Park (Chicago): 3.0
• Albany Park (Chicago): 3.0
• Carol Stream: 3.0
• O’Hare: 2.9
• Crystal Lake: 2.9
• Prairie Grove: 2.8
• Midway: 2.5
• Lansing: 2.5
• Crown Point: 2.5
• Homewood: 2.5
• Ogden Dunes: 2.5
• Peotone: 2.5
• Wheaton: 2.3
• Island Lake: 2.3
• Romeoville: 2.2
• Woodridge: 2.2
• Huntley: 2.2
• Naperville: 2.1
• Joliet: 2.1
• DeKalb: 2.0
• Cystal Lake: 2.0
• Harvard: 1.8
• St. Charles: 1.7
• Medinah: 1.6
• Channahon: 1.5
• Woodridge: 1.3
• McHenry: 1.0
• West Chicago: 1.0
• Bradley: 1.0
• Rockford: 0.6

Conclusion

The first snowfall of the season in the Chicago area brought moderate to heavy snowfall, causing slow travel times and slick road conditions. While the snow is expected to melt tonight and Friday, the event marks the beginning of winter weather in the region. Residents and commuters alike should be prepared for potentially slippery roads and reduced visibility.

FAQs

1. How much snow did the Chicago area receive? Most areas received 2–4 inches of snow, with some areas reaching totals of up to 4.2 inches.
2. When did the snow start falling? Snow began falling after daybreak on Thursday and lasted through the early afternoon.
3. How much snow is expected to melt? Most, if not all, of the snow is expected to melt tonight and Friday as temperatures warm to near 40 degrees.
4. Are roads expected to remain slick? While the snow is expected to melt, roads may still be slick and potentially hazardous, especially during evening commute times.
5. Should I prepare for future winter weather events? Yes, it’s essential to be prepared for potentially hazardous winter weather conditions, including slippery roads, reduced visibility, and extreme cold.