Chicago, Illinois Weather and Climate Guide
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VOICE OVER: Rebecca Brayton
The climate of the Midwestern American city, Chicago, features hot summers and relatively cold winters. The typical summer in Chicago sees 24 days with temperatures surpassing 90°F, or 32°C. Throughout winter, on the other hand, there are on average 15 days where the temperature falls below 0°F, or -18°C. Despite the fact that it's known as the 'windy city,' Chicago is actually no windier than many other American metropolises. Recently it has been said that the nickname was coined to promote tourism to the city. In this video, http://www.WatchMojo.com profiles the climate of Chicago, Illinois.
Chicago summers are hot and humid. Daytime temperatures range between 78 and 92°F, or 26 to 33°C. Summer nights see a drop in temperature, and usually average around 65°F or 18°C. The typical summer in Chicago sees 24 days with temperatures surpassing 90°F, or 32°C. Summer is also the city’s rainiest season, with thunderstorms being standard.
In 1995, a heat wave lasting five days led to hundreds of deaths in the city. July 12th to 16th of that year saw record temperatures, reaching as high as 106°F, or 41°C, as well as unusually hot nights.
Chicago winters usually see roughly 38 inches, or 94 cm of snow. Huge variations in temperature in a given week are not uncommon, however daytime temperatures in January and February hover around freezing. Throughout winter, there are on average 15 days where the temperature falls below 0°F, or -18°C.
Until recently, it was thought that Chicago’s "windy city" nickname was thought to refer not to the weather, but to local politicians being full of hot air. Recently it has been said that the term was coined to promote tourism to the city. Chicago is cooled by the gentle winds off Lake Michigan, and is therefore a perfect summer spot.
