Chicago, Illinois – Dangerously cold air is locked over Chicago Monday, pushing wind chills to life-threatening levels and creating hazardous travel conditions during the morning and evening commutes. Drivers are facing increased risk on untreated roads as extreme cold allows ice to form quickly, especially on bridges, ramps, and elevated roadways.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, wind chills as low as 25 degrees below zero are expected across the metro area, with the coldest conditions continuing through Tuesday morning. Officials warn that frostbite can develop in as little as 30 minutes, and exposure combined with wind makes any roadside emergency especially dangerous.
Major corridors including I-90, I-94, I-290, and Lake Shore Drive are under close watch as transportation crews battle refreezing conditions. Chicago officials urge residents to delay non-essential travel, keep vehicles fueled, and carry blankets, chargers, and winter gear if driving is unavoidable. Pedestrians and transit riders are advised to fully cover exposed skin and limit time outdoors.
The extreme cold persists into Tuesday before temperatures slowly moderate midweek. Additional cold weather advisories remain possible if conditions worsen.
Five Day Outlook for Chicago, Illinois
Monday: Bitterly cold and windy, highs near 11
Tuesday: Frigid with lingering cold, highs in the mid-20s
Wednesday: Breezy and slightly milder, highs in the low-30s
Thursday: Colder again with increasing clouds, highs near 20
Friday: Very cold with dangerous wind chills, highs in the single digits
