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Chicagoans face bitter cold temps Tuesday

Published  January 12, 2016 12:39pm CST
News
FOX 32 Chicago

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CHICAGO (STMW/FOX 32 News) - The wait for the school bus or CTA is going to be brutal Tuesday. 

As light snow continues to fall in the south suburbs, high winds kicking up fallen snow could cause visibility problems throughout the Chicago area during Tuesday’s morning commute.

Light snow falling along the I-80 corridor and further south is expected to taper off from northwest to southeast by 8 or 9 a.m., according to a special weather statement from the National Weather Service.

However, gusty winds up to or above 30 mph could cause the light, powdery snow that fell overnight to drift onto roadways or blow into the air and reduce visibility, the weather service said.

NWS officials encouraged drivers to use extra caution and allow additional travel time during the morning commute.

But don't forget that the cold is more than just an annoying inconvenience, these low temps can pose a serious threat to health and safety. The city of Chicago has made several services available to help Chicagoans cope during the winter months.

The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services operates six warming centers during weekdays when temps dip below 32 degrees. Additional facilities are opened as needed including Senior Centers, libraries, and Park District buildings. The following locations are open Monday through Friday, excluding holidays:

Englewood Center
1140 W. 79th Street
Chicago, IL 60620

Garfield Center
10 S. Kedzie Ave.
Chicago, IL 60612

King Center
4314 S. Cottage Grove
Chicago, IL 60653

North Area
845 W. Wilson Ave.
Chicago, IL 60640

South Chicago
8650 S. Commercial Ave.
Chicago, IL 60617

Trina Davila
4357 W. Armitage Ave.
Chicago, IL 60639

You can call 311 to locate a warming center near you.

Landlords are reminded to keep their buildings are at least 68 degrees during the day and 66 degrees at night. You can also call 311 to reports an unresolved heating issue with your landlord.

And, as always, be sure to BUNDLE UP! Experts say it is crucial to wear several layers of loose, warm clothing and to keep your head, hands and feet covered when going outside.