Coldest New Year's On Record Followed By -35 Wind Chill In IL

The National Weather Service's wind chill warning is in effect until noon Tuesday for much of Illinois and calls for dangerously cold wind chills of up to -20 to -35 below zero. According to the NWS, that's cold enough to cause frostbite in as little as 10 minutes. The warning follows the coldest New Year's Day on record for Chicago and Rockford, according to the weather service.

Monday's high in Chicago was just 1 degree and the low was -9, lower than the high of 5 degrees in 1969 (which saw a low of -10). The average temperature for New Year's day in Chicago was -4, lower than 1969's -2.5.

Meanwhile in Rockford, the high Monday was -1 degrees, shattering a record 4 degrees set in 1974. The low was -7, compared with 1974's low of -3.

Chicago's temperatures will stay in the single digits for most of the day Tuesday, with a forecasted high of 6 to 15 degrees. Wednesday could bring morning snow showers plus a high of 10 to 15 degrees.

During weather this cold, NWS recommends avoiding prolonged time outdoors, covering exposed skin by dressing in layers with hats and gloves and bringing pets indoors.

Some tips for staying safe in extreme cold from the Will County Emergency Management Agency:

Extreme Cold Safety Tips

• Wear several layers of loose fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing.
• Wear mittens instead of gloves.
• Wear water-repellent clothing.
• Wear a hat.
• Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
• Make sure small children, infants, and the elderly stay warm. They are more vulnerable to the cold.
• Take advantage of warming centers, public park facilities, and heated stores and malls.
• Where possible, try to keep one room in your home heated to 68-70 degrees.
• Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages.
• Eat high energy foods and drink warm beverages.
• Beware of overexertion; shoveling snow or pushing disabled cars can be very strenuous and should only be done by individuals in good health.
• Safe heating tips
• Electric heaters can be hazardous and should be used with caution to prevent shock, fire, and burns. Follow the usage instructions carefully and keep clothing and blankets away from heating elements.
• Carbon monoxide can kill. Be careful using fireplaces; make sure flues are clear and properly ventilated.
• Gas ovens, burners, and charcoal should never be used to heat your home.
• NEVER use generators in homes, garages, basements, crawl spaces, or other enclosed or partially enclosed areas, even with ventilation.

Safe Use of the Car in Cold Weather

• Make sure your car is in good operating condition before using it in extreme cold.
• Keep condensation (water) out of your gas tank by keeping the tank as full as possible.
• Maintain a storm kit in your car with items such as a cell phone and charger; blankets; extra clothing; jumper cables; a flashlight; high-calorie, non-perishable food; and matches or a lighter.
• Plan your trip carefully. If cold, snowy, or icy conditions exceed your ability or your car's ability, don't travel.
• Tell someone about your travel plans.
• Never leave the motor running in a vehicle parked in an enclosed or partially enclosed space, such as a garage.

Image via Shutterstock