An extreme cold watch for the entire Chicago area has been upgraded to an extreme cold warning by the National Weather Service; it’s expected to be one of the coldest days the region has seen in years.
Wind chill temperatures are predicted to drop as low as 35 degrees below zero in the city. The extreme cold warning will be in effect from late Thursday night through Friday morning, according to the National Weather Service.
Extreme cold warning in Chicago
During this time, temperatures may not rise above zero degrees, with Friday potentially experiencing a high of minus 5 degrees. Given the gusty conditions, the wind chill could make it feel like minus 35 degrees overnight Thursday into Friday.
Wind chills can cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes. With temperatures this low, the National Weather Service recommends staying indoors if possible. If you must go outside, be sure to cover any exposed skin.
How to dress for the extreme cold
- Dress in layers, including a base layer, middle layer, and outer layer.
- Don’t leave your skin exposed to the cold.
- Remove wet clothing.