When Will Chicago See its First Snowflakes?
The start of the holiday season is just around the corner, and many are wondering when the first snowflakes will arrive in the Chicago area.
Typical Snowfall Patterns
According to the National Weather Service, Chicago typically sees its first trace of snowfall, defined as snowfall of less than one-tenth inch, by October 31. Additionally, the city typically sees its first measurable snowfall, defined as any amount of snow of one-tenth inch or more, by November 18.
Current Snowfall Status
As of November 15, the city has not yet seen either a trace or measurable snowfall. However, this is not unexpected, as predictions have shown that area temperatures are, and will likely continue to be, above average for this time of year.
Climate Prediction Center’s Latest Modeling
The Climate Prediction Center’s latest modeling shows a 70-to-80% chance that the city, along with the rest of Illinois, will see above-average temperatures between November 14-22.
The Forecast
Beginning Monday night, an active weather pattern arrives, leading to rain into Tuesday morning. Monday and Tuesday will likely see warmer temperatures before a big drop by Thursday, which could bring the chance for the first flakes of the season. According to NBC 5 Meteorologist Iisha Scott, there’s a chance some snow could mix in with the rain Wednesday night and into Thursday, but "that depends on how much moisture is left as colder air moves in." As of Friday, the system appeared to trend more toward rain, and Scott said even if there are some snowflakes, it won’t amount to much.
Temperature Expectations
By the end of the next 10 days, temperatures are expected to have dropped into the upper 30s and low 40s.
Historical Snowfall Records
For those curious, the latest Chicago has gone without a trace to snow to begin the season was December 5, 1999. The latest first measurable snowfall of the year occurred in December 2021, when the city didn’t see one-tenth of an inch of snow or more until three days after Christmas.
Conclusion
While it’s difficult to predict exactly when the first snowflakes will arrive, it’s clear that the Chicago area is likely to see a delay in snowfall due to above-average temperatures. However, with an active weather pattern on the horizon, there’s still a chance that the first flakes could soon be on the horizon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is the typical start of snowfall in Chicago?
A: According to the National Weather Service, Chicago typically sees its first trace of snowfall by October 31 and its first measurable snowfall by November 18.
Q: Why hasn’t it snowed yet in Chicago?
A: Predictions have shown that area temperatures are, and will likely continue to be, above average for this time of year, which is causing a delay in snowfall.
Q: Will it snow in the next week?
A: There’s a chance some snow could mix in with the rain Wednesday night and into Thursday, but it’s not expected to amount to much. By the end of the next 10 days, temperatures are expected to have dropped into the upper 30s and low 40s.
