Would it be better if LOT'S official site for measuring snow was more representative of the entire metro area? (ie under less lake influence) Keep MDW as the site for LES enhanced snows but move snow measuring out further west.
Just NW of ORD toward RFD and MKE and a lot of southern WI did poorly snowfall wise last year. Chicago and just SE over towards DTW did well in a relatively short period of time. Some of it LES bail out for Chicago
For decent snow seasons you need consistent cold air and moisture. Our area has had neither. Those periods where they intersect seem to be trending briefer and less often with each passing year.