Chicago, Illinois – Brutally cold air returns to the Chicago region Thursday night, with life-threatening wind chills between -25°F and -35°F expected through Friday morning, especially northwest of I-55. Frostbite could occur in less than 10 minutes, and the threat of frozen pipes is rising fast.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, the coldest window will arrive between 3 a.m. and noon Friday, when wind chills will be at their most dangerous. Areas southeast of I-55, including central Cook County and parts of the city, could still see values around -20°F to -25°F. These extreme conditions are expected to linger into early Saturday.
In Arlington Heights and other northwest suburbs, officials urge residents to wrap pipes in unheated spaces, open cabinet doors, and let faucets drip to prevent ruptures. Interior temps should remain above 55°F. Cold air intrusion can quickly freeze exposed plumbing, leading to expensive damage.
Residents are urged to stay indoors if possible, check on elderly neighbors, and bring pets inside. Wear multiple layers and cover all exposed skin if you must go outside.
Warnings remain in effect into Saturday morning, with additional advisories possible if the Arctic air mass stalls.
