2008 could be wettest ever in Chicago

National Weather Service forecasters say that with just more than 2 inches more of rain, 2008 could go on record as the wettest year in recorded Chicago history.

Through Dec. 10, the weather service says Chicago has recorded 47.11 inches of rain. That's 2.24 inches less than 1983, when Chicago recorded 49.35 inches of precipitation, making 1983 the wettest year ever.

Forecasters say it's likely the Chicago area will add to its rainfall total as 2008 comes to an end. They say current indications show a wet weather pattern moving across Illinois and that the 1983 record, "could be in jeopardy."