The Chicago area is bracing for bitter cold temperatures as a wind chill advisory remains in place through Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service. Sunday morning saw wind chills reaching a bone-chilling minus 40 degrees, making it one of the coldest mornings yet.

Temperatures are predicted to plummet even further on Sunday, with highs ranging from minus 6 to 3 degrees. The coldest wind chill of minus 42 degrees was recorded in Sterling, while O'Hare International Airport, the city's collection site, reported a wind chill of minus 31 degrees.

Meteorologist Jake Petr explained that the extreme cold is exacerbated by elevated winds, with gusts reaching 30 to 35 mph. The weather service anticipates some moderation in temperatures by Wednesday afternoon.

This blast of arctic air follows a powerful storm system that blanketed the region with over 13 inches of snow along the Illinois-Wisconsin state line. O'Hare recorded over 6 inches of snow, while areas closer to Lake Michigan received a lesser amount.

Wind chills were consistently dangerous across the northern and southern suburbs, while the west, near Aurora and Naperville, experienced even worse conditions. The combination of blowing snow and low visibility created near-blizzard conditions, particularly in rural and open areas.

The National Weather Service warns of rapid ice formation and possible ice jams along flood-prone areas of the Kankakee and Iroquois Rivers. As the dangerously low temperatures persist through midweek, authorities urge people to stay indoors and limit outdoor exposure. Wind chills of minus 20 to 40 degrees can cause frostbite on exposed skin within minutes.

For those who need shelter from the extreme cold, the lower level of Harold Washington Library will remain open 24/7 as a warming center. Additionally, drop-in centers for the homeless will have extended hours. Mayor Brandon Johnson announced a delay in the enforcement of the 60-day migrant shelter limit policy to ensure people have access to shelter during this dangerous weather.

Prior to this frigid spell, Chicago experienced unseasonably warm weather in December and early January. The first 43 days of winter were the third warmest on record, with temperatures remaining above freezing since late November.

As this Arctic freeze persists, residents are advised to bundle up, wear face masks, and gloves if they must venture outside. Safety should be a top priority during this extreme weather event.