Chicagoans Brave Brutal Cold to Complete Weekend Errands: ‘We’re Forcing Ourselves Out’
As temperatures plunged, Chicagoans braved brutal cold to tackle weekend errands. Despite fears of frostbite, residents donned winter layers to venture out for essential activities.
Challenging Weather Conditions
Chicago faced dangerously low temperatures over the weekend, with Friday’s low at O’Hare Airport recorded at minus 11 degrees. Wind chills reached a terrifying minus 40 degrees, making it critical to limit outdoor exposure.
Brave Souls Defy the Cold
Even with adverse conditions, some Chicagoans found reasons to leave the warmth of their homes. Stan Heller, an 84-year-old resident from Streeterville, took his two Alaskan Klee Kai dogs out for a walk, noting, “I wish it were warmer, but I enjoy being with them.”
Twenty-nine-year-old Miranda Mitchell and her partner, Tony Wodzinski, both 30, also decided to brave the freezing temperatures. After staying indoors the previous day, they felt “stir crazy” and went outside to make some Christmas returns.
- Wind chills at O’Hare: minus 30 degrees
- Time for frostbite: under 30 minutes on exposed skin
Real Estate Agent Embraces the Chill
Madalyn Galdamez, a 71-year-old real estate agent, was undeterred by the cold. She headed to a property showing, embracing the winter weather. “I’m a penguin in my past life,” she humorously claimed, expressing her love for the season.
Galdamez shared her anticipation for winter, stating, “I love the frozen lake. You’d never catch me in Florida during the winter, that’s for sure.” Her enthusiasm mirrored that of other Chicagoans who have grown accustomed to the winter months.
Weather Advisory and Impending Snow
Looking ahead, forecasters warned of snow set to arrive Saturday evening and extend into Sunday. The National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory, indicating potential visibility issues for travel.
As the weekend progressed, Chicago residents continued to brave the chilling weather, proving their resilience and adaptability in the face of nature’s challenges.
