Time to dust off your snow boots and make sure your heating is in working order! Chicago could see colder and snowier conditions this coming winter, a far cry from the warmer-than-average weather observed last season.
Recent predictions from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) indicate a colder winter for much of the upper Midwest, as well as wetter-than-normal conditions which could produce increased snowfall.
This seasonal forecast is influenced by the La Niña weather pattern which is predicted to take effect within the next two months. During the La Niña pattern, cooler air develops over the pacific equatorial region, impacting weather across North America.
According to NOAA, during the La Niña pattern, the Great Lakes region typically experiences heavier snowfall and colder temps.
Notably, the La Niña weather pattern has coincided with some of Chicago’s most infamous winter storms including the North American Blizzard of 1999 and the 2011 Groundhog Day blizzard.
According to NOAA, La Niña can vary in strength. It remains to be seen just how strong the effect will be this winter, but the stronger the pattern, the more likely we are to experience above average snowfall.
The past few winters in Chicago have been warmer than average. The 2023-2024 season bore a strong El Niño pattern, the opposite of La Niña. During El Niño, Chicago typically experiences warmer and dryer conditions.
All in all, this coming winter could be a major deviation from the warm winters we’ve grown accustomed to in recent years. Click here for more information on the La Niña phenomenon, including its potential impact on the Chicago region.