Overview
- The National Weather Service watch runs from late Thursday evening through Friday morning, with wind chills possibly dropping to -30°F to -35°F and frostbite risk in 5 to 10 minutes.
- Metra and the South Shore Line will run weekend schedules on Friday, with Metra noting it has not taken this step since 2019 and warning of slower trains and switch heaters in use.
- Chicago Public Schools had not announced e-learning or closures as of Wednesday night and said decisions will follow consultations with OEMC and reviews of weather, facilities, roads and transportation safety.
- Some schools have already shifted to e-learning for Friday, including the Gary Community School Corporation, and additional private schools have posted closures.
- City departments and ComEd are increasing staffing, operating warming centers and urging safety around downed power lines, with officials preparing outreach to vulnerable residents.