The Chicago area is experiencing extreme cold conditions and disruptions following a winter storm affecting the U.S. An Extreme Cold Warning was in effect for parts of Friday, with a Cold Weather Advisory extended through Saturday morning. Forecasts indicated dangerously low temperatures and wind chills capable of causing frostbite within minutes, leading to widespread closures, travel disruptions, and specific safety advisories for residents, vehicles, and pets.
Weather Conditions and Warnings
The National Weather Service issued an extreme cold watch for the Chicago area from late Thursday night through Friday morning. An Extreme Cold Warning was then effective from 3 a.m. Friday until noon, followed by a Cold Weather Advisory from Friday noon until Saturday 9 a.m.
Temperatures on Friday were forecast to range from -5 to -15 degrees Fahrenheit for lows, with the high potentially reaching 3 degrees Fahrenheit around midnight. Some forecasts indicated Friday's high could be as low as minus 5 degrees. Wind chill temperatures were expected to make it feel as low as minus 35 degrees overnight Thursday into Friday, and between -20 to -40 degrees Fahrenheit throughout Friday. Wind chills were projected to remain between 15-25 degrees below zero through Saturday morning.
Gusty scattered snow showers were anticipated starting Wednesday evening, with accumulations of up to one inch. Gusts could exceed 40 mph, potentially leading to low visibility in open areas and hazardous travel conditions. The cold pattern is forecast to persist until at least Tuesday of next week, with temperatures expected to return to the mid-20s by then.
Health and Safety Guidelines
Health officials emphasized that wind chills can cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes. Recommendations for personal safety included:
- Staying indoors if possible.
- Covering any exposed skin when outdoors.
- Dressing in multiple layers of warm, dry clothing. This includes a warm hat, face mask, at least three upper-body layers (with one insulating layer), gloves, waterproof boots, and at least two lower-body layers.
- Avoiding tight garments that may restrict blood flow.
- Removing wet clothing promptly.
- Limiting children's time outdoors.
- Seeking indoor warmth immediately if experiencing tingling, numbness, or pain.
Public Services and Closures
Due to the severe weather, Chicago Public Schools canceled classes for Friday. Numerous county courthouses, government buildings, outdoor spaces, museums, businesses, and colleges in the Chicago area also announced closures. The 2026 Chicago Plunge event was canceled, although its after-party was scheduled to proceed. The Chicago Children's Museum at Navy Pier offered promotional admission and parking rates, and The Goddard School in Roscoe Village provided childcare services for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years.
Travel Disruptions
Hundreds of flights were canceled nationwide. As of Friday morning, 39 flights at O'Hare International Airport and nine at Midway International Airport were canceled. More than 1,300 Saturday flights were also canceled across the country, and airlines offered flight change waivers.
Travelers were advised to prepare for road conditions, with Saturday into Sunday identified as potentially the most hazardous time for driving. The Illinois Tollway is deploying 24-hour weather patrols. Stranded drivers are advised to dial *-9-9-9, turn on emergency lights, and remain in their vehicles. Metra and the South Shore Line operated on reduced schedules for Friday.
Vehicle Preparedness
AAA anticipated an increase in roadside assistance calls. Drivers were recommended to carry an emergency car kit, which may include snacks, water, a phone charger, jumper cables, and extra blankets/clothes. It was also advised to check car batteries and allow vehicles to warm up before driving. Electric vehicle owners were informed that cold temperatures can reduce range by up to 40%.
Support for Vulnerable Populations
City officials are monitoring vulnerable populations. There has been a reported increase in well-being checks initiated via 911 and 311. An annual Point in Time Count of unhoused individuals was conducted on Thursday, connecting people with resources, hot meals, and shelter options. Officials anticipate an increase in the number of unhoused individuals compared to the previous year's count of approximately 19,000.
Home and Property Safety
Plumbing and HVAC companies reported high service call volumes. Residents are advised to take measures to prevent pipes from freezing, such as opening kitchen cabinets and allowing a steady stream of both hot and cold water to run from faucets. Caution is recommended when using space heaters to avoid tripping breakers. Maintaining thermostats at a reasonable temperature and ensuring air filters are fresh are noted as critical for furnace operation, as gas pressure can fluctuate.
Under the Chicago Heat Ordinance, landlords are required to provide heat to residential units during the winter. For buildings with shared heating, temperatures must be at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and at least 66 degrees Fahrenheit from 10:30 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. For units with individual heating equipment, the equipment must be capable of maintaining a temperature of at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Landlords who violate the ordinance can face fines of $500-$1,000 per day. Tenants experiencing inadequate heat are advised to contact 311.
Pet Protection
Pet owners are reminded to keep pets inside during extreme cold conditions, as these temperatures can cause health problems for animals. If pets must go outside, using booties to protect their paws from salt and ice-melting chemicals, or applying petroleum jelly as a protective measure, is recommended. Providing shelter for outdoor cats is also suggested.