Illinois State Water Survey
Institute of Natural Resource Sustainability
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Illinois State Climatologist Office

Jim Angel, state climatologist

Winter Storms in Illinois

Jim Angel, state climatologist

Winter storms can cause widespread disruptions to society and lead to losses in both life and property. A December 22-23, 2004, storm that passed through southern Illinois and on into the Ohio River Valley caused $900 million in losses and costs. All forms of transportation were disrupted by the widespread snow and ice. In total, 17 people died as a result of the storm. See the report on this storm for more details.