An arctic blast swept into the Chicago area, plunging temperatures on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The frigid conditions resulted in bitter cold and dangerous wind chills.
Severe Cold Conditions in Chicago
On January 19, 2026, residents awoke to single-digit temperatures. At O’Hare International Airport, the thermometer read just a few degrees above zero, with a wind chill factor dropping temperatures to a biting -7 degrees.
Cold Weather Advisory
A Cold Weather Advisory is currently in effect for all of Chicago and Northwest Indiana. This advisory remains valid until noon, warning residents of the potential hazards associated with extreme cold.
- Wind chills may plummet to -25 degrees.
- Wind gusts could reach between 25 to 35 miles per hour.
- The expected high temperature for the day is only 10 degrees.
Impacts on Daily Life
Due to the federal holiday, many individuals are not commuting. Schools and workplaces are quieter than usual as residents remain indoors to avoid the harsh conditions.
Looking Ahead
Chicagoans can expect a continued cold snap throughout the week, with high temperatures struggling to surpass the 20s. Residents are advised to stay warm and monitor local advisories for updates.
