Chicago, Illinois – Life-threatening cold is tightening its grip on Illinois, with dangerously low wind chills creating a serious frostbite risk for anyone exposed outdoors for more than a few minutes early Friday.
According to the National Weather Service, Extreme Cold Warnings are in effect across northern and central Illinois, including the Chicago metro area, Rockford, Aurora, Joliet, and surrounding counties. Wind chills are expected to fall between 30 and 40 below zero before daybreak Friday, cold enough to cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as five to ten minutes.
The most severe conditions are expected across interior northern Illinois, where lighter winds will combine with deep Arctic air to drive wind chills to their lowest levels. In Chicago and Cook County, city officials warn that even short walks outdoors without full winter protection could quickly become dangerous. Suburban and rural areas may see even faster onset of frostbite due to reduced shelter from wind.
Emergency managers urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel, dress in multiple layers including face coverings and gloves, and keep pets indoors. Water pipes are at risk of freezing, and vehicle batteries may fail in the extreme cold.
Extreme Cold Warnings remain in effect through Friday morning, with additional cold watches posted for parts of Illinois heading into the weekend as Arctic air lingers across the Midwest.
