Chicago weather on december – Kicking off with Chicago Weather in December, the Windy City transforms into a winter wonderland, yet a treacherous one. This opening paragraph is designed to captivate and engage the readers, setting the tone for a journey through the extremes of Chicago’s winter weather. From subzero temperatures to lake-effect snow, Chicago Weather in December is a force to be reckoned with.
The typical temperature fluctuations in December see lows dipping as low as -15°C, while highs reach around 2°C. This drastic temperature drop is influenced by Chicago’s proximity to Lake Michigan, which plays a significant role in the formation of lake-effect snow. As a result, the city experiences an average of 19 cm of snow in December, making it one of the snowiest months of the year.
Day-by-Day Weather Patterns in Chicago During December
December in Chicago is characterized by cold temperatures, moderate snowfall, and short days. The average temperature ranges from 19°F (-7°C) in the early part of the month to 25°F (-4°C) towards the end. This variability in temperature, coupled with the presence of snow cover, creates an ideal environment for temperature inversions and extreme wind chill effects.
Daily Temperature Fluctuations
Temperature fluctuations in Chicago during December can be significant, with average highs and lows varying across the month. A 4-column responsive table illustrates the typical daily temperature fluctuations, highlighting unusual weather patterns:
| Day | Average High Temperature (°F) | Average Low Temperature (°F) | Notable Weather Events |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-5 | 27.1 | 18.1 | Snowfall, gusty winds |
| 6-10 | 34.6 | 20.5 | Cold waves, moderate snowfall |
| 11-15 | 41.4 | 25.9 | Partly cloudy, snow showers |
| 16-20 | 28.9 | 18.8 | Cold snaps, lake-effect snow |
| 21-25 | 30.5 | 21.2 | Light snowfall, moderate winds |
| 26-31 | 32.3 | 22.1 | Cold waves, heavy snowfall |
Wind Chill and Perceived Temperature, Chicago weather on december
Wind chill significantly affects the perceived temperature in Chicago during December, especially on extremely cold days. Wind chill values can drop to as low as -20°F (-29°C) even when the air temperature is only in the single digits. This is due to the increased heat loss from the skin caused by wind. The following examples illustrate this effect:
- The National Weather Service (NWS) defines wind chill as the perceived temperature on exposed skin while the wind and air temperature are in close proximity. The wind chill calculation formula is: wind chill = 35.74 + 0.6215*T – 35.75*(V^0.16) + 0.4275*T*(V^0.16). A wind chill of -20°F (-29°C) corresponds to a perceived temperature that feels like -30°F (-34°C) on an average day.
- According to a study by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, wind chill effects can cause hypothermia in people who spend extended periods outdoors in cold temperatures with high wind speeds. On a day with an average temperature of 14°F (-10°C) and a wind speed of 21 mph (34 km/h), the wind chill value can drop to -21°F (-29°C), making the environment feel like it’s below 0°F (-18°C).
- A case study from the Chicago Tribune reported that in January 2010, a wind chill of -32°F (-35°C) occurred during a polar vortex event. This temperature made the environment feel like -45°F (-42°C) due to the extremely high wind speeds and low air temperature.
Snow Cover and Temperature Inversions
Snow cover in Chicago during December plays a significant role in the formation of temperature inversions. Temperature inversions occur when a layer of warm air forms over a layer of cold air, resulting in a phenomenon where the temperature increases with altitude rather than decreasing. This process is enhanced by the presence of snow cover, which can trap cold air close to the surface and prevent it from rising. Satellite imagery reveals this process, showing a warm temperature anomaly over the snow-covered areas compared to the surrounding regions.
- According to a study by the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the snow cover and temperature inversion process can be observed in satellite imagery. The study demonstrated that on cold winter days, the surface temperature over snow-covered areas can be up to 10-15°F (5-8°C) warmer than the surrounding areas, while the air temperature above the snow cover remains relatively constant.
- A case study from the National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC) reports that in January 2012, a strong temperature inversion occurred over a snow-covered region in northern Illinois. Satellite imagery showed that the surface temperature was 25°F (-4°C) warmer than the air temperature above the snow cover, leading to a significant snow accumulation due to the orographic enhancement of the temperature inversion.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up our discussion on Chicago Weather in December, it’s clear that the city’s winter is not for the faint of heart. From the bitter cold to the heavy snowfall, Chicagoans have learned to adapt, preparing themselves for the worst. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, it’s essential to be aware of the potential dangers that come with Chicago’s winter weather.
Clarifying Questions: Chicago Weather On December
What is the average temperature in Chicago in December?
The average temperature in Chicago in December is around -2°C, with lows dipping as low as -15°C and highs reaching around 2°C.
How much snow does Chicago get in December?
Chicago experiences an average of 19 cm of snow in December, making it one of the snowiest months of the year.
What are some ways Chicagoans adapt to extreme cold and snow?
Chicagoans have learned to adapt to the extreme cold and snow through various means, including using snowblowers, investing in warm clothing, and staying indoors during the coldest months.
Can you provide some emergency supplies that Chicagoans should keep on hand during winter?
Yes, here are some essential emergency supplies that Chicagoans should keep on hand during winter:
- Warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves
- Non-perishable food and water
- First aid kit
- Flashlights and batteries
- Blankets and warm bedding
