What was the amount of snow that fell during the blizzard of 1979 in Chicago?

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By Kristy Tolley

The Blizzard of 1979 in Chicago

The Blizzard of 1979 was one of the most severe snowstorms to hit Chicago in recorded history. The storm began on January 12, 1979, and lasted for two days, bringing the city to a standstill. The blizzard was caused by a low-pressure system that moved eastward from the Rocky Mountains and collided with a high-pressure system over the Great Lakes.

Historical Significance of the Blizzard

The Blizzard of 1979 is a significant event in Chicago’s history. It is considered one of the most severe blizzards to ever hit the city, causing widespread disruption and damage. The storm led to the closure of schools, businesses, and transportation, and was responsible for at least 50 deaths in Illinois and Indiana. The economic impact of the blizzard was significant, with estimates of over $1 billion in damages.

Overview of the Snowstorm

The blizzard began on January 12, 1979, and lasted for two days. The storm was characterized by heavy snowfall, high winds, and low temperatures. The snowfall was so intense that it led to whiteout conditions, making it difficult for people to see and navigate through the city. The winds during the storm reached up to 60 miles per hour, causing snowdrifts as high as 25 feet.

The Snowfall Records in Chicago

The Blizzard of 1979 set several snowfall records in Chicago. The storm dumped a total of 20.1 inches of snow on the city, making it the third-largest snowstorm in Chicago’s history. The storm also set a record for the most snowfall in a single day in Chicago, with 18.8 inches of snow falling on January 13, 1979.

The Amount of Snow that Fell in 24 Hours

The Blizzard of 1979 set a record for the most snowfall in a single day in Chicago, with 18.8 inches of snow falling on January 13, 1979. This was a significant amount of snowfall, causing widespread disruption and damage. The snowfall was so intense that it led to the closure of schools, businesses, and transportation.

The Amount of Snow that Fell in Total

The total amount of snow that fell during the Blizzard of 1979 in Chicago was 20.1 inches. This was the third-largest snowstorm in the city’s history, causing significant damage and disruption. The snowfall was so intense that it led to whiteout conditions, making it difficult for people to see and navigate through the city.

Comparing the Blizzard of 1979 to Other Snowstorms

The Blizzard of 1979 is considered one of the most severe blizzards to ever hit Chicago. However, the city has experienced several other significant snowstorms over the years. The 1967 blizzard, for example, dumped 23 inches of snow on the city, making it the largest snowstorm in Chicago’s history.

The Economic and Social Impact of the Blizzard

The Blizzard of 1979 had a significant economic and social impact on Chicago. The storm caused widespread disruption and damage, leading to the closure of schools, businesses, and transportation. The total cost of damages was estimated to be over $1 billion. The blizzard also had a social impact, with at least 50 deaths reported in Illinois and Indiana.

The Response to the Blizzard

The response to the Blizzard of 1979 was significant. The city’s emergency services worked tirelessly to clear the streets and help those in need. The National Guard was also called in to assist with the snow removal efforts. The blizzard led to the implementation of new policies and procedures to better prepare for future snowstorms.

How the City of Chicago Dealt with the Snow

The city of Chicago dealt with the snow from the Blizzard of 1979 by implementing a comprehensive snow removal plan. The city used snowplows, salt, and other de-icing agents to clear the streets and keep the city moving. The city’s emergency services also worked tirelessly to assist with the snow removal efforts.

Lessons Learned from the Blizzard of 1979

The Blizzard of 1979 taught the city of Chicago several lessons. The storm highlighted the importance of preparedness and the need for effective emergency response plans. The blizzard also led to the implementation of new policies and procedures to better prepare for future snowstorms.

Conclusion: Remembering the Blizzard of 1979

The Blizzard of 1979 was a significant event in Chicago’s history. The storm brought the city to a standstill, causing widespread disruption and damage. However, the city’s response to the storm highlighted the resilience and strength of the people of Chicago. Today, the Blizzard of 1979 is remembered as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and the need for effective emergency response plans.

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Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

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