Michiana will need Santa's magic for a 2020 white Christmas

 

Across Michiana, both our December snow deficit and our forecast temperatures continue to climb. 

As the weather looks less and less wintery as we head into the second half of the month, many are asking the big question: what does this mean for our white Christmas prospects?

First, we need to make sure we're on the same page about what a "white Christmas" actually is. While some think the term refers to Christmas day snowfall, meteorologists define a white Christmas as a holiday with one inch or more of snow on the ground. So, you can technically have a white Christmas even if no snow falls during the day!

Historically, Michiana has about a 50% chance of experiencing a white Christmas in a given year. If you live in southwestern Michigan, you have slightly better odds of the occurrence. 

However, snow on Christmas Day is relatively common, too. Measurable snow has fallen on about one out of every three Christmases in South Bend. Bigger snows of more than 3 inches happen about one out of every 11 Christmases.

However, as we mentioned previously, the odds are against us this year. Leading up to Christmas Day, above-normal temperatures are likely across Michiana.

 Considering all the factors, I put Michiana's current chance of a white Christmas at 10%.

We'll continue to update our chances for a white Christmas as we get closer to the holiday.