Chicago's 2025-26 Snowfall Below Average, Historical Context Provided
• Chicago's 2025-26 snowfall is significantly below the historical average of 38.4 inches, with only 17.6 inches recorded.
• The highest recorded snowfall in Chicago was 89.7 inches in 1978-79, while the lowest was 9.8 inches in 1920-
• The below-average snowfall has implications for city services, energy consumption, and water resources, raising concerns about potential drier conditions.
Chicago snowfall significantly below average in 2025-26
Chicago experienced significantly below-average snowfall during the 2025-26 season, recording only 17.6 inches compared to the historical average of 38.4 inches, according to the National Weather Service. This has prompted comparisons to historical snowfall records, with the highest being 89.7 inches in 1978-79 and the lowest at 9.8 inches in 1920-21. The variability in Chicago's snowfall is influenced by factors such as Lake Michigan, wind patterns, temperature fluctuations, and broader climate trends.
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