Normal, IL – Residents across Normal and Bloomington are being urged to prepare for dangerously cold temperatures this weekend, as local police warn conditions will be cold enough to pose serious safety risks.
According to the Normal Police Department, the upcoming cold snap is expected to bring brutal wind chills, potentially nearing -20 degrees, prompting officials to encourage residents to stay indoors and limit unnecessary travel. Police used a lighthearted tone in their advisory but stressed a serious message: extreme cold can be life-threatening.
“Stay warm. Stay inside. Stay crime-free,” the department said, noting officers would prefer a quiet weekend focused on safety rather than emergency responses.
To support residents without reliable heat, warming centers will be available throughout the weekend at multiple locations in McLean County.
Warming Centers in Normal
- Meijer, 1900 E. College Ave. — Open 6 a.m. to midnight
- Normal Public Library, 206 W. College Ave.
- Monday–Thursday: 9 a.m.–8 p.m.
- Friday–Saturday: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Sunday: 1 p.m.–5 p.m.
- Uptown Station, 1 Uptown Circle — Open daily; closes with last train at 9 p.m.
Warming Centers in Bloomington
- Bloomington Public Library, 205 E. Olive St.
- Monday–Thursday: 9 a.m.–9 p.m.
- Friday–Saturday: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Sunday: 1 p.m.–5 p.m.
- Connect Transit Bus (McLean County Health Dept. lot), 200 W. Front St. — Availability based on resources
- Walmart, 2225 W. Market St. — 7 a.m.–11 p.m.
Officials recommend checking on vulnerable neighbors, limiting time outdoors, and dressing in layers if travel is unavoidable.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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