Dangerous cold, sub-zero temps hit Chicago

CHICAGO (STMW) - The National Weather Service is warning Chicagoans of dangerously cold temperatures that can cause frostbite Monday.

The wind chill advisory will be in effect from 9 p.m. Sunday until noon Monday, according to the weather service. The wind chill values will range between 15 and 25 degrees below zero, with the coldest temperatures happening around daybreak Monday.

The wind chills can cause frostbite to exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

“If you must venture outdoors…make sure you wear a hat and gloves,” a weather service alert said.

Chicago residents seeking access to warming centers or experiencing insufficient heat should contact 3-1-1 for immediate assistance, city officials said.

The Illinois Tollway launched around-the-clock Zero Weather Road Patrols Sunday. The 24-hour patrols search for stranded drivers and respond to calls that come in to Illinois State Police. Drivers are advised to keep cellphones fully charged before heading out and to remain in their vehicles until help arrives if they are stranded.

The high temperature Monday is expected to reach 12 degrees.

“Chicago is no stranger to historically cold winters, but no matter the conditions, each year we prove that we can weather the storm,” Mayor Rahm Emanuel said in a written statement. “As always, we encourage all residents to check on their neighbors and call for assistance when necessary.”

The rest of the week is expected to warm up significantly, according to the weather service. Tuesday will be mostly sunny with a high near 20 degrees, and there will be a 40 percent chance of snow after midnight.