Key Takeaways
- A Cold Weather Advisory has been issued for several counties in the Chicago area, including Boone, Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Will, Grundy, Kane, Kankakee, Kendall, LaSalle, Lake (Ill.), Livingston, McHenry, Winnebago, Jasper, Lake (Ind.), and Newton counties
- A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for LaSalle and Livingston counties
- Snow and dangerous cold are expected to hit the Chicago area this weekend, with temperatures dropping to single digits and wind chills of -10 to -20 overnight
- Warming centers will be open in the city and suburbs to provide shelter and meals for those in need
- A warming trend is expected next week, with temperatures potentially climbing into the 40s by Wednesday
Introduction to the Cold Weather Alert
The Chicago area is bracing for a cold and snowy weekend, with a Cold Weather Advisory issued for several counties. The National Weather Service has warned of bitter cold and snow, with temperatures expected to drop dramatically over the weekend. ABC7 Chicago meteorologists have issued an AccuWeather Alert, and residents are advised to take necessary precautions to stay warm and safe. The city of Aurora has opened a warming center, which will provide shelter and meals for those in need.
Impact on Local Events and Activities
The cold weather is expected to impact local events and activities, including the Aurora Christkindlmarket. While the market was bustling on Friday, with large crowds enjoying the festive atmosphere, the cold weather may deter some visitors over the weekend. However, indoor heated spaces are available, and warm drinks such as hot chocolate are big sellers. The city of Aurora has also changed its rules for warming centers, opening them any time the temperature dips below 32 degrees. This move is aimed at preventing hypothermia and illness, and ensuring that everyone has access to a warm and safe place to sleep.
Weather Forecast and Expected Conditions
The weather forecast for the weekend is looking bleak, with snow and cold temperatures expected to hit the area. An arctic cold front is approaching, which will produce scattered snow showers and flurries between 6 p.m. Friday and midnight Saturday. Temperatures will then drop, mainly into the single digits, with wind chills of -10 to -20 overnight. Saturday will be mostly cloudy and breezy, with snow developing, and most of the accumulating snow is expected south of Interstate 80. The city may see a dusting to less than 1 inch of snow, while areas south of I-80 could see a couple of inches of snow.
Warming Centers and Support Services
Warming centers will be open in the city and suburbs to provide shelter and meals for those in need. The city of Aurora has opened a warming center, which will be open from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. with meals available and plenty of cots for sleeping. Volunteers such as Matt Fogarty are working to ensure that everyone has access to a warm and safe place to sleep. The warming center is expected to be full, and the city is urging residents to take advantage of the service to avoid hypothermia and illness.
Sunday’s Forecast and the Chicago Bears Game
Sunday morning is expected to be the coldest part of the weekend, with temperatures dropping below zero for most locations, and wind chills dipping to -25 to -30. The Chicago Bears game at Soldier Field will be played in bitterly cold conditions, with wind chills ranging from -5 to -10 during the game. However, winds may relax on Sunday afternoon, providing some respite from the cold. Despite the cold weather, fans and players are bracing for what could be one of the coldest Bears games ever.
Looking Ahead to Next Week
There is light at the end of the tunnel, with a warming trend expected next week. Temperatures may climb into the 40s by Wednesday, providing a welcome respite from the cold weather. Residents are advised to stay warm and safe over the weekend, and to take advantage of warming centers and support services if needed. The city and suburbs are working together to ensure that everyone has access to a warm and safe place to sleep, and to prevent hypothermia and illness.
