The Great Windy Blizzard: A Guide to Hibernation or High-Fives in December's Chicago
Ah, Chicago in December. A time for cozy sweaters, steaming mugs of something spiked with cheer, and... knee-high snowdrifts that threaten to swallow you whole? Or maybe not?
Let's face it, figuring out Chicago's December snowfall is like trying to predict a toddler's mood swings. One year, you're building a snowman that could rival Frosty himself, and the next, you're wondering if you accidentally wandered into a particularly festive fall.
But fear not, intrepid adventurer (or Netflix enthusiast, no judgment!), for this guide will equip you with the knowledge to navigate December's potentially snowy, but often surprisingly mild, wonderland.
How much snow are we talking about, anyway?
According to the folks at the National Weather Service, who probably have a special decoder ring for deciphering Chicago's weather whims, December averages a respectable 7.6 inches of snowfall. That's enough to dust the city in a layer of white and get you in the holiday spirit, but not enough to require a team of huskies to get you to the grocery store.
But here's the kicker: December can be a real wildcard. Some years (like 2013-2014, anyone?), it dumps a whopping 82 inches on the city, transforming Chicago into a real-life Narnia. Others (looking at you, 2017-2018), leave you wondering if winter forgot its address.
The moral of the story? Be prepared for anything. Pack your snow boots alongside your cute booties, just in case.
So, should I stock up on bread and milk like there's a blizzard apocalypse coming?
Unless you have a serious fear of missing out on movie marathons fueled by endless bowls of popcorn, the answer is a resounding no. Chicago may get its fair share of snow, but full-blown blizzards are rare. The city has a well-oiled snow removal system, and grocery stores are pretty good at staying stocked, even during the occasional winter flurry.
Pro tip: Download a reliable weather app to keep yourself updated on the latest forecast. This way, you can avoid the mad dash to the store when a rogue snowflake appears on the radar.
The Final Verdict: Embrace the Unexpected!
December in Chicago is a delightful surprise box. It might be a winter wonderland, a crisp and clear month perfect for strolling along the Magnificent Mile, or something in between. The key is to be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way, and to embrace the season's potential for both cozy nights in and festive adventures out.
So, pack your layers, grab your hot cocoa essentials, and get ready for a December in Chicago that's sure to be, well, typically Chicago: full of surprises and guaranteed to be a story to tell.
