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Chicago Braces for Major Snowstorm: 18 Inches Expected

11/9/2025

50 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A significant lake-effect snowstorm has prompted a winter storm warning for Chicago from late Sunday into Monday.
The National Weather Service expects snowfall rates over 3 inches per hour and 6 to 18 inches of accumulation near the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Strong winds could create whiteout conditions and make Monday morning travel hazardous.
Storm should taper Monday afternoon, followed by a warming trend into the 40s by Tuesday.

History

Historical Context

The Great Blizzard of 1888, occurring from March 11 to 14, paralyzed the northeastern United States, causing over 400 deaths and record snowfall exceeding 40 inches. This storm followed a series of severe blizzards from 1885 to 1888, attributed to disrupted weather patterns after the 1883 Krakatoa eruption. Today's snowstorm in Chicago reflects ongoing winter weather challenges faced by urban areas.

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Story summary

A significant lake-effect snowstorm has prompted a winter storm warning for Chicago from late Sunday into Monday.
The National Weather Service expects snowfall rates over 3 inches per hour and 6 to 18 inches of accumulation near the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Strong winds could create whiteout conditions and make Monday morning travel hazardous.
Storm should taper Monday afternoon, followed by a warming trend into the 40s by Tuesday.

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