Bitter cold lingers over Chicago region

Bitter cold lingers over Chicago region

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The wind chill Friday morning is making the temperature feel like it’s below zero.

Stephen Rodriguez is a meteorologist with the National Weather Service. He said the wind chill is expected to taper off a bit as the day goes on.

“Despite this ridge of high pressure moving over and sunny skies today, we can still only anticipate forecast highs trying to struggle to get out of the single digits today,” he said.

It’s expected to warm up just a little this weekend, getting into the teens. For Sunday’s Bears’ game, we’re looking at a high of 20.

Meantime, Illinois officials say residents can take refuge at more than 120 warming centers, including the seven Illinois
Tollway Oases, as bitter cold settles over the state. The Illinois Department of Human Services says the other centers are located at IDHS offices throughout the state and will be open during regular business hours.

IDHS Secretary Michelle R.B. Saddler says the centers are a safe place to stay for people who need a warm place to go or who cannot afford to turn up the heat during the day.