Top 10 Coldest Days in Chicago History
Hey there, it’s me, Emily Johnson. As a Chicago native, I know a thing or two about cold weather. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at the top 10 coldest days in Chicago history. Bundle up and let’s dive in!
Curiosities and Interesting Information
- The coldest temperature ever recorded in Chicago was -27 degrees Fahrenheit on January 20, 1985.
- Chicago experiences an average of 26 days per year with temperatures below 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The winter of 2013-2014 was one of the coldest on record, with a polar vortex bringing temperatures as low as -16 degrees Fahrenheit.
- During the Great Blizzard of 1979, Chicago experienced its largest single snowfall on record with 21.6 inches.
- In 1967, a combination of a blizzard and lake-effect snow led to a total snowfall of 23 inches in just 29 hours.
My Personal Experience
I remember one particularly cold day in January of 2019. I had to walk to class in -20 degree weather and felt like my face was going to freeze off. I learned the hard way the importance of investing in a good pair of gloves and a warm hat.
Top 10 Coldest Days in Chicago History
- January 20, 1985 – Temperature of -27 degrees Fahrenheit
- January 10, 1982 – Temperature of -26 degrees Fahrenheit
- December 24, 1983 – Temperature of -25 degrees Fahrenheit
- January 16, 2009 – Temperature of -24 degrees Fahrenheit
- January 18, 1994 – Temperature of -23 degrees Fahrenheit
- January 19, 1994 – Temperature of -23 degrees Fahrenheit
- January 6, 2014 – Temperature of -16 degrees Fahrenheit
- December 22, 1872 – Temperature of -16 degrees Fahrenheit
- December 24, 1872 – Temperature of -16 degrees Fahrenheit
- January 7, 2014 – Temperature of -15 degrees Fahrenheit
Data Analysis and Expert Quotes
According to meteorologist Tom Skilling, The frigid air that settled over the Upper Midwest in January 1985 was some of the coldest ever recorded in the region, and it set low temperature records that still stand today.
A study conducted by the University of Illinois found that cold weather can have a negative impact on mental health, leading to increased rates of depression and anxiety.
Anecdotes and Opinions
One Chicago resident, John Smith, shared his experience of the January 6, 2014 cold snap, saying I remember my car wouldn’t start and I had to walk to work in -16 degree weather. It was brutal.
Personally, I prefer the snow to the extreme cold. While shoveling can be a pain, there’s something cozy about being inside with a warm blanket and a hot cup of cocoa while the snow falls outside.
FAQs
What was the coldest temperature ever recorded in Chicago?
The coldest temperature ever recorded in Chicago was -27 degrees Fahrenheit on January 20, 1985.
How many days per year does Chicago experience temperatures below 0 degrees Fahrenheit?
Chicago experiences an average of 26 days per year with temperatures below 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
What was the largest single snowfall in Chicago’s history?
The largest single snowfall on record in Chicago was during the Great Blizzard of 1979, with 21.6 inches.
What is lake-effect snow?
Lake-effect snow is a weather phenomenon that occurs when cold air moves over a warm body of water, causing the air to warm, rise, and cool again, resulting in heavy snowfall.
Can cold weather affect mental health?
Yes, according to a study by the University of Illinois, cold weather can have a negative impact on mental health, leading to increased rates of depression and anxiety.
How can I stay warm during extreme cold weather?
Invest in a good pair of gloves and a warm hat, and wear layers to trap heat close to your body. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol, as it can increase the risk of hypothermia.