CHICAGO — Some of the coldest air of the season has gripped Chicagoland on Wednesday morning.
But if it’s not bitter cold enough, just wait until next week.
Early-morning temperatures Wednesday ranged in the single digits to below zero, with wind-chill values also below zero, although winds are pretty calm. For those seeking shelter during bitter cold periods, see information on city and county warming center below.
Current Conditions
[Image: Current Temperatures and Feels Like Temperatures]
Looking Ahead
We get a brief reprieve from the bitter cold at the end of this week, with highs around 40 by Friday. Enjoy that break, because Chicagoland plunges back into the deep freezer by early next week, and this time even colder. Highs for Martin Luther King Day on Monday and then again on Tuesday are in the single digits, with lows below zero, and that’s not even with the wind chill.
[Image: Temperature Outlook for January 19-23]
Beyond that, we’re looking at temperatures far below normal as we progress into the second half of January.
Warming Centers
The City of Chicago coordinates a network of more than 190 public facilities available for warming. This includes participating Chicago Public Library locations, Chicago Park District, Chicago Police Department and City Colleges of Chicago facilities during business or designated hours.
Department of Family & Support Services
The Chicago Department of Family & Support Services activates warming areas at the city’s six community service centers when temps are 32 degrees or below.
- The warming areas are open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with reduced locations on holidays.
- Under extreme cold conditions, as defined by the National Weather Service and communicated by OEMC, warming center hours of operation at 10 S. Kedzie may be extended.
- Seniors are welcome at any of DFSS’s 21 senior centers. DFSS partners with OEMC to use robocalls to inform seniors of key information regarding how to stay safe during extreme weather. Visit Chicago.gov/Seniors for senior center locations and hours.
- Those seeking a warm place to go after hours can also call 3-1-1 to be connected with available services.
- Individuals requiring emergency overnight shelter should also call 3-1-1.
- DFSS Homeless Outreach and Prevention (HOP) teams and street outreach partners work proactively with unhoused individuals to connect with warming options, shelter and well-being checks.
- Residents are also encouraged to check on relatives, neighbors and friends during a winter weather emergency.
Warming Center Locations available Monday, Jan. 6 – Friday, Jan. 10
- All Community Service Centers (9 a.m.-5 p.m.)
- Englewood Community Service Center – 1140 West 79th Street
- Garfield Community Service Center – 10 South Kedzie Avenue
- Dr. Martin Luther King Community Service Center – 4314 South Cottage Grove
- North Area Community Service Center – 845 West Wilson Avenue
- South Chicago Community Service Center – 8650 South Commercial Avenue
- Trina Davila Community Service Center – 4312 West North Avenue
- Senior Centers (8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.) – visit Chicago.gov/Seniors for locations
- Chicago Public Library locations, visit chipublib.org for hours and locations
- Cook County will open warming centers in the north, south and west suburbs to help residents combat the extremely cold conditions forecast for Tuesday evening through Thursday.
Conclusion
As the temperatures drop, it’s essential to prioritize your health and safety during this cold spell. Make sure to check on vulnerable individuals, such as seniors and those experiencing homelessness, and provide them with warm clothing, blankets, and access to warm shelters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current temperature in Chicago?
A: As of Wednesday morning, temperatures are ranging from single digits to below zero, with wind-chill values also below zero.
Q: Where can I find a warming center?
A: The City of Chicago coordinates a network of over 190 public facilities available for warming, including community service centers, senior centers, and Chicago Public Library locations. You can find a list of warming center locations on the City of Chicago’s website.
Q: What services are available at warming centers?
A: Warming centers provide a safe and warm environment, as well as access to essential services such as food, clothing, and healthcare. Some centers may also offer additional services, such as laundry facilities and shower facilities.
Q: How can I stay safe during a winter weather emergency?
A: Make sure to prioritize your health and safety by dressing warmly, staying hydrated, and checking on vulnerable individuals. Avoid traveling unless necessary, and follow all instructions from local authorities.
