Winter temperatures in Chicago arrived ahead of schedule, with subfreezing conditions expected to persist through the week, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
The Windy City hit a high of just 30 degrees Monday, while overnight lows dipped to a frigid 23 degrees.
Temperatures rose slightly to a high of 41 degrees Wednesday, but will plunge again to a high of 26 degrees on Thursday.
Chicagoans could see some snow flurries late Wednesday afternoon, according to the NWS, as well as strong wind gusts up to 30 mph. Scattered snow showers are expected to persist into the night.
Temperatures will tick back up at the tail end of the week, with a high of 42 predicted for Sunday.
While Chicago is no stranger to freezing temps, this week’s arctic blast is hardly the norm for this time of year. According to the NWS, current temperatures are about 10 to 15 degrees below average for parts of the Northern and Central Plains.
If you’re wondering how it’s already this cold with the winter solstice weeks away, it’s because the solstice only marks the start of astronomical winter.
Meteorological winter in Chicago, however, began on December 1.
According to the Weather Channel, meteorological winter is defined as the concise three-month period from December through February, which comprises the coldest months of the year.
With a long winter ahead, it’s important to stay warm. Warming centers are open across Chicago when temperatures drop below freezing. Click here to view a full list and learn more information about how to stay safe this winter.