Chicago is no stranger to winter’s wrath, but this week’s Arctic blast is set to test even the toughest Midwesterners. Temperatures are plummeting, anda wind chills could reach a staggering -25°F, putting the city under an extreme cold advisory that demands serious precautions.
The National Weather Service warns that exposure to these conditions could cause frostbite in less than 30 minutes. As the dangerously low temperatures grip Chicago, residents are being urged to stay indoors, dress in layers, and avoid unnecessary travel. Here’s what to expect as the bitter cold settles in.
How Cold Will It Get? A Day-by-Day Breakdown
Tuesday, February 18 – Brutal Wind Chills Continue
The Arctic air tightens its grip as temperatures barely rise above 11°F (-12°C) during the day. Overnight lows will be around 1°F (-17°C), but with gusty winds, it will feel much colder. Residents should avoid prolonged outdoor exposure, as frostbite and hypothermia risks are extremely high.
Wednesday, February 19 – Snow Flurries Possible
Clouds roll in, bringing a slight chance of afternoon snow flurries. Temperatures will stay locked in the teens, reaching only 13°F (-10°C), with lows dipping to 3°F (-16°C). While wind chills won’t be as extreme as earlier in the week, they’ll still make outdoor conditions dangerous.
Thursday, February 20 – Still Freezing, But Some Sunshine
The sun will make an appearance, but don’t let it fool you—highs will barely reach 19°F (-7°C). Nighttime lows will remain brutally cold at 7°F (-14°C). The cold will linger, and ice accumulation from previous days could make sidewalks and roads hazardous.
Friday, February 21 – Signs of a Slight Warm-Up
Chicagoans will finally see a small break from the extreme cold, with highs climbing to 25°F (-4°C). While still cold, it will feel far better than earlier in the week.
Saturday, February 22 – A Step Closer to Normal
Temperatures continue their slow climb, reaching 30°F (-1°C) with partly sunny skies. Though still below freezing, the relative warmth will offer some relief from the deep freeze.
Sunday, February 23 – Finally Above Freezing!
The deep freeze finally loosens its grip, with temperatures rising to 37°F (3°C). Snow and ice will begin melting, though residents should remain cautious of slippery conditions.
How to Stay Safe in Extreme Cold
With wind chills dropping below -25°F, frostbite can occur in as little as 10-30 minutes. Here’s how to stay safe during this dangerously cold stretch:
- Limit Outdoor Time: If you don’t have to go outside, stay indoors. If you must leave, keep all skin covered—wear a hat, scarf, gloves, and thermal layers.
- Watch for Frostbite and Hypothermia: Symptoms of frostbite include numbness, white or grayish skin, and a firm, waxy texture. Seek immediate warmth if you experience these symptoms. Hypothermia signs include shivering, slurred speech, and confusion—if these occur, seek medical help right away.
- Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Elderly residents, young children, and those with medical conditions are most at risk. If you know someone who may not have adequate heat, check in on them.
- Prepare for Potential Heating Emergencies: Burst pipes and power outages are common in extreme cold. Keep extra blankets, flashlights, and emergency supplies on hand.
When Will Chicago Finally Warm Up?
Relief is on the horizon—but it will take time. Temperatures won’t climb above freezing until Sunday, meaning icy roads and bitter wind chills will persist all week.
By early next week, a milder pattern could set in, bringing temperatures back into the upper 30s and low 40s. While that might not feel like summer, compared to -25°F wind chills, it’ll be a welcome change
