Community Corner

PHOTOS: Two-Year Anniversary of Blizzard

Between Feb. 1 and Feb. 2, 2011, a massive snowstorm hit the Chicago area. McHenry County was among the county's hardest hit with snow accumulations exceeding 20 inches in some parts of the county.

Two years ago today, a massive blizzard buried the Chicago area in snow, causing widespread power outages and forcing many schools and businesses to close. 

Here are some statistics from the National Weather Service about the February 2011 blizzard:

  • A total of 21.1 inches of snow was recorded in Woodstock during the blizzard. A total of 13 inches was recorded in Huntley. For a full list of snowfall totals, visit the NWS.
  • The official snowfall total for the area was 21.2 inches and was recorded at O’Hare International Airport. 
  • The 2011 blizzard went down in the history books as the third-biggest snowfall in Chicago history.
  • Wind gusts ranged from 45 to more than 60 mph throughout the Chicago area. 
  • There were widespread snowdrifts of between 2 and 5 feet. There were snowdrifts greater than 10 feet in some areas.

Relive the 2011 blizzard by scrolling through our photo gallery. Do you have a great photo you would like to share with the community from that day? You can upload it by clicking on "Upload Photos & Videos." 

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