Science & Nature
Dangerous Cold Blasts Chicago, Wind Chills Expected to Plummet to 20 Below Zero
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Chicago is in the grips of a deep freeze, with dangerously cold conditions forecast throughout the week.
According to the National Weather Service, daytime highs will struggle to make it into the double digits and nighttime lows will plunge below freezing. Sub-zero wind chills will be the norm until Friday.
The worst is expected Monday night into Tuesday morning, when wind chills will plummet to 20 to 30 degrees below zero. Forecasters recommend limiting time outdoors if possible.
(National Weather Service Chicago)
Chicago has multiple warming centers open where people can escape the cold. Though many facilities are closed Monday for the President's Day holiday, some Park District fieldhouses are open for reduced hours.
The Chicago Department of Water Management recommends running a trickle of cold water at points furthest from the main water service. Keep warm air circulating wherever there are pipes, especially underneath sinks. If a pipe does freeze, use a hair dryer to thaw it.
The Chicago Heat Ordinance requires residences and workplaces to maintain temperatures of 68 degrees during the day. If there’s no heat, or inadequate heat, in your building, contact your landlord and call 311 to lodge a complaint.
Be cautious when using portable space heaters:
- Keep at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn, such as bedding, books and papers, clothing or curtains.
- Place on a solid, flat floor surface (not on furniture).
- Have an automatic shut-off feature, so that if it tips over, it shuts off.
- Plug directly into a wall outlet — never plug into an extension cord or power strip.
To find the closest warming center and hours residents can contact 3-1-1 via phone or online at https://t.co/eMLTeZQrMX, download the Chicago OEMC. All emergencies requiring First Responders, please call 9-1-1. pic.twitter.com/wmwXTmSdvF
— Chicago OEMC (@ChicagoOEMC) February 17, 2025
Contact Patty Wetli: @pattywetli | (773) 509-5623 | [email protected]
