Chicago: The Windy City or the Rainy City?
Chicago, the city of broad shoulders and deep dish pizza, is often stereotyped as a windy place. And yes, it does live up to that reputation. But let's talk about something a little less breezy: rain. How much does it actually rain in this concrete jungle?
Rain, Rain, Go Away...
You might think that a city surrounded by one of the Great Lakes would be a veritable desert, but think again. Chicago gets its fair share of precipitation, which is a fancy way of saying it rains a decent amount. We're talking about a city that can go from sunshine to a torrential downpour faster than you can say "deep dish."
The average annual rainfall in Chicago is around 36 inches. That's a lot of water! Imagine filling up a bathtub every week for an entire year. That's basically what Chicago does. So, if you're planning a trip and are worried about getting soaked, pack an umbrella. Or better yet, embrace the rain and channel your inner Gene Kelly.
When Does it Rain the Most?
Now, you might be wondering, when exactly does all this rain fall? Well, it's not evenly distributed throughout the year. Summertime in Chicago is a bit of a rollercoaster. You get those glorious, hot days, but then BAM! A sudden downpour that can turn the city into a miniature Venice. Spring and fall are also pretty rainy, while winter tends to be a bit drier (unless you count snow as rain, which, let's be honest, sometimes feels like the same thing).
Does Chicago Ever Stop Raining?
A common question, and a valid one. Yes, Chicago does eventually stop raining. The sun does come out, and when it does, it's usually pretty glorious. It's like the city is celebrating its brief reprieve from the wet stuff. But don't get too comfortable, because chances are, the rain will be back soon enough.
So, to sum it up: Chicago gets a decent amount of rain, it's spread out throughout the year, and yes, it does eventually stop raining. Now, go enjoy that deep dish pizza, but don't forget your umbrella!
How To...
- How to dress for a Chicago summer: Layers, layers, layers! Be ready for anything from sunshine to thunderstorms.
- How to survive a Chicago winter: Invest in a good coat, hat, and gloves. And maybe some snow boots.
- How to find indoor activities in Chicago: Plenty of museums, theaters, and restaurants to keep you entertained on rainy days.
- How to appreciate the rain in Chicago: Embrace the romantic side of the city, listen to the pitter-patter, and maybe even do a little rain dance.
- How to plan a trip to Chicago: Check the weather forecast, but don't let a little rain ruin your fun!