No White Christmas as Chicago Continues Record Breaking Snow-Free Streak

Patty Wetli | December 20, 2021, 8:29 am

(Srikanta H. U / Unsplash)

Santa won't need a sled to get around Chicago this Christmas Eve, but the jolly old elf could use an umbrella.

The National Weather Service is forecasting dry conditions through mid-week and then a chance of rain Dec. 24, dashing hopes of a white Christmas.

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With no flakes in sight, Chicago will set a record for the latest date of the winter season's first measurable snow, defined as a tenth of an inch. Typically, the official gauge at O’Hare notches snow by Nov. 18, according to the weather service.

In 2012, snow didn't arrive until Dec. 20, a record 2021 is poised to not only pass, but smash.

The next streak within reach is the longest period without snow — 290 days — also set in 2012. As of Monday, Chicago is at 280 days, the second-longest snow-free stretch since anyone started keeping track of these sorts of things back in 1884.

Generally cool and dry conditions are expected through midweek before another round of anomalously warm temperatures move in by Christmas Eve along with a chance for rain. Those wishing for a White Christmas will unfortunately have to wait at least another year. #ILwx #INwx pic.twitter.com/ehyXaIHk8R

— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) December 19, 2021