Subzero air temperatures and gusty westerly winds will result in dangerously low wind chill values through the daytime hours today. The gusty winds will also continue to cause blowing and drifting snow, with periodic sharp visibility reductions in open areas. Winds will diminish tonight, allowing temperatures to plummet to their lowest levels in at least 5 years, but there should be enough wind to keep wind chill values dangerously low at 30 to 45 below zero. Tuesday will then be another day of bitterly cold temperatures and wind chills. We will not get out of the deep freeze until Wednesday afternoon.
Residents, please keep informed on severe weather conditions. The most current information on Watches and Warnings is available at Weather.gov
Precautionary/Preparedness Actions
A wind chill advisory means that the wind will combine with the very cold air to generate low wind chills. This will result in frost bite and lead to hypothermia if precautions are not taken. If you must venture outdoors...make sure you wear a hat and gloves. Bring pets indoors.
Power Outage/Heat Loss/Broken Pipes
Residents experiencing a power outage should call ComEd at 1-800-EDISON-1 to inform ComEd of the outage. Residents needing assistance with heat loss or broken pipes, may call the Fire Department at 708-246-1182 or the Police Department non-emergency at 708-246-8540 for assistance.
Water Main Breaks
Water main breaks are also an issue with the extreme weather. If you notice water bubbling up in the street, please call the Police non-emergency number at 708-246-8540 with the location.
Please remember to check on the well-being of friends and neighbors during severe weather conditions, especially the elderly or homebound.
Additional Information
Cook County Situational Awareness Press Release
FEMA—Severe weather preparedness
FEMA—Carbon monoxide info
Illinois Department of Health News Release— Warnings about hypothermia and frostbite risks.
Red Cross-Stay Safe—Follow advice from the Red Cross on how to stay safe during sever weather.