The weather in Chicago is very variable, which makes it one of the most important parts of living in the city. It can affect how you live your life, and how you enjoy the great outdoors. There are several different factors to consider, such as temperature, humidity, rain, and growth seasons. It is very easy to get confused, but you should always be prepared.
Temperature
Chicago’s climate is continental and cold, with frequent short fluctuations in temperature and humidity. It is the largest city in Illinois, and is located near a large body of water, Lake Michigan. Its climate is moderate in the spring and fall, but is cold in the winter.
Temperatures in Chicago range from 22 degC to 83 degC, and are seldom below 5 degC. The weather is chilly, with snowfall occurring as early as April. The shortest day of the year, December 21, is the shortest in the Northern Hemisphere.
The hottest month in Chicago is July, with an average high of 82 degF. During June, the average temperature rises to 60 degF, and it is often sunny.
Humidity
When it comes to humidity in Chicago, the city has a fairly average level. However, it’s not all good. The city has experienced significant heat waves over the years.
The worst heat wave in Chicago history occurred during July 1916. It killed over 600 people. The official record high for Chicago for July 11 is 97 degC. It was the deadliest weather event in the history of the city.
There are numerous sources of information about the weather in Chicago. These include the National Weather Service, the US National Centers for Environmental Information, and the Weather Bureau. Those sources provide the data for the temperature and relative humidity.
Rainfall
Rainfall in Chicago is fairly predictable, although the amount is often highly variable. The average annual precipitation is 39 inches. The lowest temperature recorded in Chicago was -22 degrees Fahrenheit in December 2000.
The mean wind direction is from the ocean and the four cardinal directions. The mean wind speed is 17 kph (11 mph). The shortest day in Chicago is December 21, while the longest day is June 21. The average minimum and maximum temperatures are 0.0 and 32 degrees Fahrenheit, respectively.
Chicago has a continental climate, and the majority of the city’s rainfall comes from thunderstorms in the summer. However, some sunny days can also occur in winter.
Growing season
The growing season in Chicago usually lasts from mid-April to mid-October. Depending on your climate, the time of year you grow your crops will vary.
To get the most out of your plants, you need to pick them regularly. This will provide a more thorough harvest, and increase the yield. Using a hydroponic system will also help you harvest fresh produce more often.
The CPHP (Chicago Public Health Partnership) offers an educational gardening program. You can also check out the Garfield Park Conservatory for tips on rejuvenating your indoor plants. The first and last frost dates are essential to planning your planting schedule.
Extreme variability
Chicago experiences substantial seasonal variation in both the amount and types of precipitation and clouds. This is a threat to both food security and public health. The extreme weather events that occur may be increasing in frequency. These are called heat waves and high temperature events.
The hottest day of the year in Chicago is July 24. The coldest month is January. The shortest day is December 21. The highest temperature is 33degF. The most rain falls in June.
The windiest days are in the month of January. The average hourly speed is 8.7 miles per hour. The mean wind direction is from the northwest.
Winter
Winter in Chicago is often cold and snowy. Temperatures can plummet to 22degF or lower, making it difficult to go outside. It’s important to plan ahead. It’s best to dress in layers. Some recommended clothes include a sweater, a long undershirt, a regular shirt, and wool or fleece leggings.
The bulk of the snowfall in Chicago comes in January and February. However, lighter snowfall can come in early October or early May.
The city’s weather is affected by Lake Michigan. The large thermal mass of the lake moderates temperature and suppresses precipitation. When north or northeast winds blow, they cause lake-effect snows. These snows help boost storm systems.
