Lincoln, IL – As Arctic air spreads across Illinois this December, dangerously cold conditions are raising an important question for residents statewide: Do I have hypothermia? With wind chills dropping into the single digits below zero — and colder at times — health officials warn that prolonged exposure can quickly become dangerous.
According to the National Weather Service office in Lincoln, Arctic air will persist across central, east-central, southeast, and west-central Illinois through the weekend. Wind chills are expected to fall below zero at times from Saturday evening through Monday morning, while another weather system may bring accumulating snow to parts of central and southeast Illinois.
Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing core body temperature to fall below 95 degrees. Early symptoms include uncontrollable shivering, slurred speech, confusion, clumsiness, and extreme fatigue. As exposure continues, shivering may decrease or stop altogether, signaling a medical emergency.
Frostbite is also a concern during this Arctic blast. Warning signs include numbness, pale or bluish skin, and hard or waxy-feeling skin, most often affecting fingers, toes, ears, and the nose. Because frozen tissue becomes numb, people may not realize frostbite is occurring until damage is severe.
State and local officials urge Illinois residents to limit time outdoors during the coldest periods. If you must go outside, wear multiple loose layers, insulated gloves, hats, and face coverings. Take frequent breaks indoors, avoid alcohol, and check on older adults, children, and anyone without reliable heating.
If hypothermia is suspected, seek medical attention immediately. Move the person indoors, remove wet clothing, wrap them in dry blankets, and warm the body gradually. Avoid rubbing extremities or using direct heat, which can cause serious complications.
With Arctic air gripping Illinois this December, recognizing the signs of hypothermia and frostbite is critical to staying safe during this dangerous weather pattern.
