La Niña to Bring Cold & Snow to Illinois and Wisconsin this Winter

As the summer heat continues to bake us, many start to wonder what the upcoming winter may have in store. Will it be a season of blizzards, ice-storms, and another polar vortex, or will a milder weather prevail? According to the latest seasonal outlook from the NOAA Climate Prediction Center, the winter of 2024/25 is shaping up to be an interesting one for the people of Wisconsin and Illinois.

A La Niña Winter on the Horizon

This year, all eyes are on La Niña, the climate pattern that often brings cooler and snowier conditions to parts of the northern states. For Wisconsin and Illinois, this could mean a return to more traditional winter weather—something snow lovers and winter sports enthusiasts might look forward to. Meanwhile, everyone else trying to travel will be grumbling about the roads.

NOAA’s outlook suggests that La Niña is expected to develop during the late summer and early fall, with a 70% chance of it persisting into the winter months. If this forecast holds, the typical La Niña pattern will likely dominate our winter weather, bringing some rather familiar "chilly white" conditions to the region.

What This Means for Temperatures

Let’s talk temperatures first. The NOAA forecast indicates that Wisconsin and northern Illinois might experience near-normal to slightly cooler-than-average temperatures this winter. For those in the northern part of Wisconsin, especially around the Great Lakes, the chance of experiencing colder-than-normal temperatures is even higher.

Southern Illinois, on the other hand, might see a different story unfold. The southern tier of the U.S. is expected to experience warmer-than-average temperatures, and this could extend into the southern parts of Illinois, where milder winter days could be more frequent.

For cities like Milwaukee, Madison, and Chicago, expect a mixed bag of typical cold snaps interspersed with milder periods, particularly as you move further south.

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Precipitation and Snowfall Expectations

When it comes to snowfall, the news is promising for those who enjoy a good snow day. NOAA’s outlook points to above-average precipitation for the Great Lakes region, which includes much of Wisconsin and northern Illinois. This increase in precipitation often translates to more snow, especially in areas closer to Lake Michigan, where lake-effect snow could add an extra layer to your winter wonderland.

For southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois, including the Chicago area, this could mean more frequent snowfalls and possibly some larger snow events. However, as you move further south into central and southern Illinois, the outlook suggests below-average precipitation. This means less snow for places like Springfield and Carbondale, where winter might feel a bit more subdued.

The Midwest’s Winter Mood

So, what’s the overall vibe for winter 2024-25 in Wisconsin and Illinois? In a word: classic. For those in the northern parts of these states, it’s time to dust off the snow shovels, prepare the snowblowers, and get ready for a winter that could bring plenty of snow and cold days. If you’re in southern Illinois, expect a milder winter, with fewer snowfalls and more variability in temperatures.

Whether you’re a fan of cold weather sports or just enjoy a good snow day, it looks like this winter could deliver a little something for everyone (and a lot for those who despise snow). Just remember, long-range forecasts can change as the season approaches, so stay tuned for updates as we get closer to the heart of winter. In the meantime, enjoy the warmth of the summer sun, the fall colors to come, and start thinking about how you’ll make the most of whatever winter has to offer. My suggestion: maybe buy a new winter jacket.