Chicago, IL – The Windy City is waking up to a deep Arctic chill that’s cutting through the Midwest this morning, and the worst is yet to come. By tonight, wind chills could drop as low as -20°F, making even brief exposure hazardous for commuters and anyone spending time outdoors.
The National Weather Service in Chicago has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook warning of excessive cold risk through Thursday morning. Temperatures will hold in the teens to single digits, with blustery northwest winds making it feel much colder. While skies will clear through the day, the calm will bring an even sharper freeze — the kind that bites at fingertips and leaves car batteries struggling.
Thursday brings sunshine but no warmth, with highs near 18°F and bitter winds continuing. Friday looks slightly better but still frigid, reaching the upper 20s before another chance of light snow late Friday night — a reminder that winter has fully taken hold across northern Illinois and northwest Indiana.
Drivers along I-90, I-94, and I-55 should watch for patches of black ice, especially during early commutes. Residents are urged to bundle in layers, limit outdoor exposure, and check on elderly neighbors and pets.
Meteorologists note this Arctic surge is the strongest of the young winter season — a clear sign December’s freeze is here to stay.
How cold does it feel in your neighborhood? Share your photos or reports below.
5-Day Outlook for Chicago, IL (Dec. 3–7):
- Thursday: Sunny, high 18°F, low 7°F.
- Friday: Partly sunny, high 29°F, low 21°F.
- Saturday: Chance of snow, high 30°F, low 21°F.
- Sunday: Chance of snow, high 32°F, low 20°F.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, high 28°F, low 22°F.
