CHICAGO, IL – A brutal Arctic blast is set to grip Chicago overnight, bringing dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills as low as -25°F from midnight to 11 AM Monday. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Wind Chill Advisory, warning residents that exposed skin can develop frostbite in as little as 15 minutes in these extreme conditions.
What to Expect
🌡 Air Temperatures: Dropping to -5°F to -10°F overnight
💨 Wind Chills: Feels-like temperatures between -20°F and -25°F
❄ Strong Winds: Gusts of up to 30 mph, making conditions even colder
🚨 Ice & Frostbite Risk: Prolonged exposure can lead to hypothermia and frostbite within minutes
Areas Most Impacted
📍 Downtown Chicago & Lakefront Areas: Bitterly cold temperatures with high wind gusts
📍 Suburbs (Aurora, Naperville, Joliet): Wind chills dropping to -20°F or lower
📍 Northern Illinois & Indiana Border: Coldest temperatures expected in open rural areas
Travel & Safety Concerns
🚧 Hazardous Road Conditions: Ice patches and black ice are expected, making roads extremely slippery
🚍 Public Transit Delays: Cold weather may impact CTA, Metra, and Amtrak services
⚠ Power Outages Possible: Increased energy use could strain power grids, leading to temporary blackouts
How to Stay Safe in the Extreme Cold
✔ Limit Outdoor Exposure: Stay indoors if possible and avoid prolonged time outside
✔ Dress in Layers: Wear thermal clothing, gloves, hats, and waterproof boots
✔ Protect Your Pipes: Let faucets drip slightly to prevent freezing and bursting pipes
✔ Check on Elderly & Vulnerable Individuals: Make sure family, friends, and neighbours have proper heating
✔ Bring Pets Inside: Extreme cold can be life-threatening for animals left outdoors
What’s Next?
This Arctic blast is expected to ease slightly by Monday afternoon, with temperatures rising into the single digits by midday. However, another round of extreme cold is forecast later this week, with additional frigid temperatures expected.
For real-time weather updates, tune into local news or visit the National Weather Service website. Stay warm, stay safe, and take precautions during this dangerously cold event!