Chicago is about to get hit with one of the coldest Arctic blasts of the season, bringing dangerously low temperatures, bitter winds, and a significant risk of frostbite. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory, warning residents to take extreme precautions as temperatures plunge well below freezing.
Snow will arrive first, coating the city in a fresh layer of ice and making roads treacherous. But the real danger comes with the brutal wind chills, which could make it feel as cold as -15°F to -25°F in some areas.
Forecasters say frostbite can occur in as little as 10 minutes on exposed skin, making this one of the most dangerous winter events of the season so far.
How Cold Will It Get? A Breakdown of the Arctic Blast
Wednesday, February 12
- Snow begins in the morning, with 3 to 6 inches expected by nightfall.
- Winds will pick up throughout the day, leading to blowing snow and whiteout conditions in some areas.
- Daytime highs will struggle to reach 30°F (-1°C), but by night, the temperature will plummet to 16°F (-9°C).
Thursday, February 13
- Cold air tightens its grip, with a high of only 19°F (-7°C).
- Overnight temperatures will plunge to 4°F (-15°C), making it one of the coldest nights this winter.
- With wind chills, it will feel as cold as -25°F, increasing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia.
Even though Thursday will bring some sunshine, it won’t provide any relief from the bitter cold.
Why This Freeze Is So Dangerous—Frostbite and Hypothermia Risks Are High
This isn’t just another cold snap—this is life-threatening cold.
- Wind chills will drop to dangerously low levels, meaning any exposed skin could develop frostbite in just 10 minutes.
- Frostbite symptoms include numbness, pale or waxy skin, redness, or pain. If you experience these signs, seek warmth immediately.
- Hypothermia is also a serious risk. Prolonged exposure to these extreme conditions can quickly lead to disorientation, shivering, and even loss of consciousness.
Officials are urging residents to avoid being outside unless absolutely necessary.
What This Means for Travel and Daily Life
With snow and ice covering the roads and wind chills reaching extreme lows, travel conditions will become incredibly hazardous.
- Roads will be snow-covered and slippery, making for a dangerous morning and evening commute.
- Bridges and overpasses will freeze first, leading to a higher risk of accidents.
- Flight delays and cancellations are likely as airlines prepare for de-icing operations.
- Public transportation could also see delays, especially with extreme cold affecting rail systems.
If you have to drive, officials recommend keeping an emergency kit in your car, including blankets, water, and extra clothing in case of a breakdown.
How to Stay Safe During This Arctic Freeze
With conditions expected to be brutal and potentially life-threatening, it’s important to take precautions now:
- Limit outdoor exposure – If you must go outside, wear multiple layers, gloves, and a hat to protect against frostbite.
- Check on elderly neighbors and those without reliable heat – Extreme cold can be deadly for those who don’t have proper shelter.
- Keep pets indoors – If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them.
- Prepare for power outages – Heavy snow and high winds could lead to downed power lines and blackouts.
- Let faucets drip overnight – To prevent pipes from freezing and bursting, keep a slow trickle of water running.
Final Warning: Chicago’s Arctic Freeze Could Be One of the Worst of the Season
This is not a typical cold spell—it’s an Arctic outbreak that will bring dangerous and possibly life-threatening conditions.
Officials are urging residents to stay indoors whenever possible, avoid travel during the worst of the storm, and be prepared for extreme cold and icy roads.
