Chicago typically notches an inch of measurable snow by Dec. 7. (David Mark / Pixabay)
Of all the complaints that could be leveled against 2020, a miserable winter isn’t one of them.
According to the National Weather Service, it’s been one of the quietest years on record in terms of snowfall, with less than an inch measured to date.
But that’s about to change. Beginning late Tuesday afternoon, a mix of snow that could be heavy at times and freezing rain will descend on the Chicago area. The wintery mix is expected to last through Wednesday morning.
Total accumulation could range from an inch or two in Chicago to upward of 5 inches near the Illinois-Wisconsin border.
In a typical year, Chicago notches an inch of measurable snow by Dec. 7. The latest first inch of snow occurred Jan. 25, 2013. The 2012-13 winter made up for its slow start, though, ultimately tallying 30.1 inches, according to National Weather Service data.
While wintry precipitation is forecast this week, there has been a clear lack of snow in northern Illinois and most of northwest Indiana thus far this winter. Through today for Chicago, this is a top ten quietest start for both snowfall and snow cover.#ILwx #INwx pic.twitter.com/XUaOOiYeGE
— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) December 28, 2020
Good morning! Here are three graphics/tweets to summarize heavy snow later today & freezing rain overnight.
Impacts will be seen to this eve's commute, and they may be significant in places due to heavy snow rates. Plan accordingly & use travel flexibility if able. #ILwx #INwx pic.twitter.com/OPYwgIxnl3
— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) December 29, 2020
Contact Patty Wetli: @pattywetli | (773) 509-5623 | [email protected]
