Chicagoans, bundle up and stay inside if you can—one of the coldest snaps of the season is here, and it’s bringing dangerously low temperatures, biting winds, and snow. If you thought winter was rough before, get ready for an even icier turn.
What’s Happening: Today’s Forecast
- High: 26°F (-3°C)
- Low: A brutal 2°F (-17°C)
- Conditions: Snow showers this morning will leave behind 1-3 cm of accumulation. The sky will stay cloudy, with occasional flurries throughout the day.
- Wind Chill: Strong, gusty winds will make it feel much colder than the actual temperature, pushing wind chills well below zero.
The Week Ahead: The Deep Freeze Continues
- Monday, February 17: Bitter cold sticks around with a mix of clouds and sun. Highs will barely reach 11°F (-12°C), and overnight lows will drop to -1°F (-18°C).
- Tuesday, February 18: The sun might make an appearance, but don’t let it fool you—temperatures will still be freezing, with a high of 10°F (-12°C) and a low of 7°F (-14°C).
- Wednesday, February 19: Mostly cloudy with occasional flurries. The high of 17°F (-8°C) won’t feel much better thanks to biting wind chills.
This isn’t just another cold snap—it’s part of a powerful Arctic air mass sweeping across the country, dropping temperatures well below freezing in nearly 89% of the U.S. Chicago, as always, finds itself right in the middle of it.
Stay Safe: What You Need to Know
These frigid temperatures aren’t just uncomfortable—they’re dangerous. Here’s what you can do to stay safe:
- Stay Indoors When Possible: Exposure to extreme cold can cause frostbite in less than 10 minutes.
- Dress in Layers: If you have to go outside, wear multiple layers, including a heavy coat, gloves, a hat, and insulated boots.
- Check on Neighbors & Pets: Elderly neighbors, those with medical conditions, and pets need extra care in this weather.
- Find a Warming Center: The city has activated warming centers across Chicago. Call 3-1-1 or visit the city’s website for locations.
- Prevent Frozen Pipes: Keep a trickle of water running in faucets and maintain a steady indoor temperature to avoid frozen pipes.
Chicagoans are no strangers to harsh winters, but this cold snap is one of the worst we’ve seen in years. Staying safe and warm should be the top priority for everyone. The National Weather Service and city officials are urging caution, as temperatures this low can turn deadly fast.
