Snowfall may be common during the winter season in Chicago, but last night’s narrow band of quickly falling snow brought a special surprise to some parts of the city. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the snowfall was significant enough to accumulate up to two inches in some areas, but it quickly dissipated in the early morning hours.
The NWS reported that the heaviest snowfall was seen in the far northern and northwest suburbs, with Rockford recording 1.9 inches of snow. The city was quick to respond, deploying salt trucks since 2:30 a.m. in order to keep the roads safe for commuters.
As the snow continued to fall, the city urged its residents to take precautions and allow extra time for their morning commute. In a tweet posted on X, the city reminded everyone to slow down and be cautious on the roads.
Although the snowfall may have caused some minor inconveniences, it was a beautiful sight to behold as it blanketed the city in a white coat. However, the NWS predicts that the snow will not last for long, with only light flurries or sprinkles expected until mid-morning on Wednesday.
NBC 5 Meteorologist Alicia Roman also weighed in on the snowfall, stating that the narrow band of snow will move through eastern Will County and into Northwest Indiana before dissipating. She also reassured the city that the rest of the day will be dry, albeit cloudy and chilly, with temperatures in the mid-30s, which is average for this time of the year.
As for Thursday, the day will start off dry, but there is a chance of snow developing in the early evening, around 5 p.m. Snowflakes are expected to move further east by 7 p.m., with scattered snow showers predicted across Chicago. This snowfall is expected to continue into Friday morning, with lake effect snow predicted for Friday evening in Northwest Indiana.
According to Roman, this system could bring up to two inches of accumulation in some parts of the city, while other areas may see lower totals. The temperatures will remain in the mid-30s on Friday before dipping into the 20s on Saturday. However, this cold spell will not last long, as temperatures are expected to rebound on Sunday and reach the 40s by the middle of next week.
As we approach Christmas, many are wondering if Chicago will have a ‘White Christmas’ this year. According to the NWS, a ‘White Christmas’ is defined as having at least one inch of snow on the ground on December 25th. While this may be a dream for some, it has only occurred three times in the past decade, with the last one being in 2022.
As for this year, NBC 5 Meteorologist Alicia Roman predicts above average temperatures from December 25th to December 31st, with a partly sunny and dry Christmas Day. Although there may be a chance of showers the day after Christmas, temperatures well above freezing will prevent any snowfall and keep precipitation in the form of rain.
Looking ahead to the end of Christmas week, temperatures are expected to reach the upper 40s, with a high of 43 degrees on Christmas Day. It seems like we may have to wait a little longer for a white Christmas in Chicago, but the city is still expected to experience a festive and enjoyable holiday season.
In conclusion, last night’s snowfall may have been unexpected, but it added a touch of magic to the city as it prepares for the holiday season. While we may not see a ‘White Christmas’ this year, the warmer temperatures and dry conditions will make for a comfortable and pleasant holiday. Let’s embrace the beauty of the season, and enjoy the snow while it lasts.
