The Chicagoland area is seeing the coldest weather since last January with wind chill temperatures in the single digits, according to the National Weather Service.
The National Weather Service (NWS) said late Friday evening that wind chills were in the single digits above zero in northern Illinois.
“It is COLD out! This is the coldest weather the area has experienced since the middle of last January!” the NWS Chicago said.
The cold will continue this weekend and people are urged to bundle up if heading out.
The wind chill temperature forecast for Waukegan was 2 degrees as of 12 a.m. Saturday with the temperatures decreasing to -2 degrees as of 6 a.m. Saturday.
The NWS said the cold temperatures are expected to continue through early next week.
“Outside of potential lake effect snow in Porter County, Indiana on Monday, the next chance for snow is expected to come Tuesday night into Wednesday,” the NWS said.
Waukegan Mayor Ann Taylor said residents should not leave their animals outside in the cold as the weather has become frigid.
“Their paws can get frostbite very easily. Also, water you leave outside for them will freeze. Treat them like family and bring them indoors,” Taylor said.
The Village of Huntley said residents should disconnect and drain all garden hoses, shut off outdoor spigots and winterize irrigation systems to avoid pipes bursting.
Residents who leave their homes for days are recommended to turn off their water main valve and set the heat to at least 55 degrees, the village said.