Snow Hits Chicago Area Thursday, but Likely Won’t Stick Around for Christmas
Winter Weather Update
Two rounds of snow could coat parts of the Chicago area with 1 to 2 inches of snow by Saturday morning — but don’t expect a white Christmas.
Snowfall Expected
Snow moved into the Chicago area Thursday night, bringing a half-inch to O’Hare Airport and about an inch in some north suburbs. Another round of snow should hit the area late Friday night. National Weather Service meteorologist Zachary Yack said there will likely be winds of 30 to 35 mph Friday.
North Suburbs to See the Bulk of the Snow
The north suburbs will see the bulk of the snow, according to Yack.
Lake-Effect Snow to Fall on Northwest Indiana
Lake-effect snow will fall on northwest Indiana before dissipating Saturday.
Forecast Challenges
“The tricky part of this forecast is how roads will respond,” Yack said.
Cold Front Brings Chilly Temperatures
A cold front is expected to move in Saturday and bring high temperatures in the upper 20s before returning to the low 30s on Sunday.
White Christmas Unlikely
Chicago is not expected to have a white Christmas — defined as when 1 inch of snow is on the ground, Yack said. Temperatures are expected to reach the upper 30s or lower 40s with a possibility of rain on Christmas Eve, extending through Christmas Day.
Average White Christmas Frequency
On average, Chicago gets one white Christmas every three years, so Yack said 2025 may be the year.
Conclusion
In summary, while snow is expected to hit the Chicago area on Thursday and Friday, it is unlikely to stick around for Christmas. Temperatures are expected to be too mild, and rain is possible on Christmas Eve and Day. If you’re hoping for a white Christmas, you may want to look forward to next year.
FAQs
Q: Will it snow in the Chicago area this weekend?
A: Yes, two rounds of snow are expected to hit the area on Thursday and Friday, with possible accumulation of 1-2 inches.
Q: Will it be a white Christmas in Chicago?
A: No, temperatures are expected to be too mild, and rain is possible on Christmas Eve and Day, making it unlikely for there to be 1 inch of snow on the ground.
Q: How often does it snow on Christmas in Chicago?
A: On average, Chicago gets one white Christmas every three years.
