If you thought this winter had already given us its worst, think again. Dangerously cold temperatures are gripping the Chicago area, with wind chills expected to hit a brutal -30°F overnight. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an urgent warning for residents, urging them to stay indoors and limit exposure as frostbite could occur in as little as 10 minutes.
This isn’t just another chilly night—this is life-threatening cold that demands immediate precautions.
How Cold Will It Get?
By Monday evening, temperatures have already dipped to 0°F (-18°C), but it’s the wind chills that are making conditions unbearable. The combination of freezing air and strong northwest winds will send the “feels-like” temperature plummeting to a bone-chilling -30°F (-34°C) overnight.
These kinds of temperatures can freeze exposed skin within minutes, increase the risk of hypothermia, and put extreme stress on heating systems.
How to Stay Safe in This Arctic Blast
Chicagoans are no strangers to winter, but this level of cold is extreme—even by Midwest standards. Here’s what you need to do to stay safe:
- Stay Indoors: If you don’t have to go outside, don’t. The risk of frostbite and hypothermia is dangerously high.
- Dress in Layers: If you must go out, cover all exposed skin. Wear a hat, gloves, scarf, and thermal layers to trap body heat.
- Check on Vulnerable Neighbors & Family: Elderly individuals, young children, and those with medical conditions are at higher risk in extreme cold.
- Keep Pets Inside: If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them. Bring pets indoors and make sure outdoor animals have adequate shelter.
- Prevent Heating Hazards: Space heaters can be dangerous—keep them away from flammable items and never leave them unattended.
How This Will Impact Travel
The cold is already causing major disruptions in the Chicago area. O’Hare International Airport has reported over 1,000 flight delays, and road conditions are worsening as ice builds up.
If you have to drive:
- Keep an emergency kit in your car (blanket, water, snacks, flashlight).
- Allow extra time for travel and watch for black ice on bridges and overpasses.
- If your car breaks down, stay inside and call for help.
When Will It Warm Up?
Chicago won’t get much of a break from the cold anytime soon. Tuesday’s high will struggle to reach 12°F (-11°C), with lows dropping back down to 2°F (-17°C). Wind chills will still be well below zero, so bundling up and limiting time outdoors will remain essential.
Later in the week, a slight warm-up is expected, but don’t expect anything above freezing. Winter is far from over.