Chicago, Illinois – Winter officially begins Sunday with the arrival of the winter solstice, bringing the shortest day and longest night of the year and signaling a critical period for winter home preparedness across Illinois. For Chicago and surrounding communities, the solstice often coincides with sustained overnight cold that increases the risk of frozen pipes, heating strain, and fire hazards inside homes.
According to the National Weather Service and Illinois emergency management officials, extended cold during overnight hours allows water in pipes to freeze, expand, and potentially burst, especially in older buildings common throughout Chicago neighborhoods. Plumbing located along exterior walls, in basements, crawl spaces, and unheated garages is particularly vulnerable.
City officials and the Illinois State Fire Marshal urge residents to insulate exposed pipes, seal gaps around vents and foundation openings, and keep thermostats set consistently, even when away from home. Letting faucets drip slightly during the coldest nights can help prevent water from freezing in place. Residents are also encouraged to locate their main water shutoff valve in case a pipe breaks.
Fire officials warn against using blowtorches, propane heaters, or other open flames to thaw frozen pipes, citing a sharp rise in winter house fires tied to unsafe heating practices.
With winter now officially underway, additional cold snaps are likely as the season progresses. Residents should complete winter home preparations now and stay alert for updated advisories as conditions evolve through the heart of winter.
