Chicago is in the midst of a snow drought this winter
CHICAGO - Chicago is in the midst of a snow drought this winter.
Fox 32 Meteorologist Mike Caplan breaks down what we've seen so far.
Little snowfall this winter
What we know:
Since Dec. 1, the start of meteorological winter, only 7 inches of snow has fallen at O’Hare International Airport.
Normal snowfall during this period would be 20.6 inches.
Fancy math on my part (OK, it’s simple division) computes to 34% of normal snowfall through Feb. 4.
There are only 24 days left in meteorological winter including today. That’s plenty of time to make up that deficit.
More snow on the way?
What's next:
The first opportunity for some measurable snowfall is Saturday.
Various computer models depict snow of varying amounts with the U.S. model in the 0 to 2 inches range, and the European model with 0 inches to 4 inches with a distinct bias for the northern counties.
The general pattern favors somewhat colder than normal temperatures heading into mid-month. This would provide a "better" opportunity for weather systems to lay down some snow here.