Chicago, Illinois — Dangerously cold temperatures and life-threatening wind chills are expected to impact the Chicago area beginning Thursday night and lasting through Saturday morning.
According to the U.S. National Weather Service in Chicago, a strong Arctic cold front will move into northern Illinois late Thursday, ushering in the coldest air of the winter so far. Actual air temperatures are forecast to fall to 0 to -12°F overnight, with daytime highs Friday only reaching -5 to +3°F. Some locations may remain below zero all day Friday.
Wind speeds of 10–20 mph will drive wind chill values down to -25°F to -35°F, particularly Thursday night into Friday morning, creating dangerous conditions where frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.
Before the cold arrives, forecasters expect snow overnight into early Wednesday, followed by gusty snow showers Wednesday evening as an initial cold front moves through. A stronger secondary front Thursday night will bring the most severe cold.
Conditions are expected to slowly moderate by Saturday afternoon, with highs recovering into the 3 to 10°F range, though wind chills will remain below zero into early Sunday.
The National Weather Service urges residents to limit outdoor exposure, dress in insulated layers, bring pets indoors, and take steps to prevent frozen pipes.
The cold snap is expected to significantly affect commuters, outdoor workers, and students during early morning travel periods.
