A look back at the record-setting winter of 1978-79

Observed snow depth—the winter of 1978-79 produced a record 89.7 inches of snow. At least 1” of snow covered the ground from late November to early March, a period spanning 100 days. In contrast, this winter has produced a snow cover for a mere 6-day period. Currently, the shortest period of snow cover stands at 8 days during the winter of 1948-49. 40 years ago today, Chicagoans were experiencing the 4th biggest snowstorm in the city’s history. Light snow began just after noon on Friday, January 12, and gradually became steadier and heavier overnight. Snow fell continuously for 39 hours, ending early Sunday morning with a storm total of 20.3 inches. In the wake of the storm, the city was immobilized for a week, and O’Hare Airport was closed for 42 hours as temps plummeted to a bone chilling -19°.