City Opens Warming Shelters as Subzero Wind Chills Head Toward Chicago
Bitterly Cold Temperatures Expected
Despite the unseasonably warm weather Friday, temperatures will plunge into the single digits Saturday night and remain there until Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service. Wind chill temperatures will reach as low as minus 14 degrees Sunday night.
A Rare Occurrence
According to National Weather Service meteorologist Gino Izzi, the air temperature has not dipped below zero in one year, since Jan. 16, 2024.
Cold Spell Expected to Last Through Tuesday
Overnight Sunday the regular air temperature will plummet, giving us our first subzero temperatures, which will hover between zero and 5 below zero. Monday and Tuesday will be two “really cold” days, and temperatures will fall back again to zero to 5 below zero on both overnights.
Wind Chills to be “Pretty Ugly”
During this period, wind chills will be “pretty ugly,” ranging from 10 to 20 degree below zero, Izzi said.
Cold Spell Expected to End on Wednesday
The cold spell is expected to end on Wednesday with temperatures hitting almost 20 degrees, Izzi said.
Warming Centers Open Across the City
The Garfield Community Service Center will be open for residents seeking to warm up between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Saturday, and from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday and Monday. Other city buildings, such as libraries, park district facilities and police districts will also serve as warming centers, though hours there vary by location and date.
Additional Resources Available
The Salvation Army’s Freedom Center in Humboldt Park, 825 N. Christiana Ave., will be open 24 hours as a warming shelter throughout the week. The organization also runs the 24-hour “Shuttle of Hope,” which works with the city’s 311 call center to transport people to shelters.
Conclusion
The city is taking proactive steps to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents during this period of extreme cold. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the warming centers and resources available to them.
FAQs
Q: When are the warming centers open?
A: The Garfield Community Service Center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, and from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday and Monday. Other warming centers have varying hours.
Q: What are the hours of the Salvation Army’s Freedom Center?
A: The Salvation Army’s Freedom Center is open 24 hours a day throughout the week.
Q: How can I get to a warming center?
A: The city offers a 24-hour “Shuttle of Hope” service, which can be accessed through the 311 call center.
