A group of swimmers entered Lake Michigan early Friday morning despite extremely cold temperatures and windchills in Chicago. According to the National Weather Service, the lake temperature was 33 degrees Fahrenheit, significantly warmer than the air, which dropped to seven below zero as a cold front moved through the area.
Milwaukee Avenue in Wicker Park and Bucktown was mostly empty during this period. Only a few people were seen at major intersections or using public transportation. A cyclist near the Bloomingdale Trail reported trying to stay warm while braving the cold.
Bobby Maley, waiting for a bus on Milwaukee Avenue, said: “I have my down jacket on, I have some gloves, I have my face mask on, so it’s not too bad. My legs are a little cold; maybe I should have worn long johns.” He added: “It feels fine at first, but once you start going it catches up to you.”
An extreme cold warning was issued until noon Friday with windchills potentially reaching minus 35 degrees. A cold weather advisory remains in effect until Saturday morning. In response to these conditions, Chicago Public Schools closed all buildings and canceled classes on Friday.
Several businesses also closed to protect employees from the dangerous temperatures. However, Dan O’Conor, known as the Great Lake Jumper, continued his routine by swimming at Montrose Harbor alongside others including George “Iceberg” Miller.
Navy Pier saw minimal activity except for some families visiting the Children’s Museum after school cancellations. The museum remained open with special offers for families seeking indoor activities. Noah Cruickshank of the museum stated: “It’s important we’re open so families have a place to come on a day like today. School is off, but your kids can still get enrichment, so you won’t have them sitting right in front of Netflix.”
Tourists Max Top and Thomas Mousallieh from Paris continued their visit despite the weather. Top commented: “I think it’s cool… It’s the Windy City,” and expressed his fondness for Chicago.
Navy Pier plumber Danny Clancy described his commitment during harsh weather: “I protect the health of the nation… With extreme temperatures, if there’s a door left, broken window, it can lead to problems. But I don’t see any. We cover our asses.” He added about his work ethic: “Monday through Friday, I’m here as long as I can get here… This ain’t new to me.”
Louie P., a CTA bus driver working Grand Avenue routes said: “I never take off… Work is work. You get up and you do what you gotta do.”
City officials urged residents to use warming centers available throughout Chicago during business hours at several community service centers and other public locations over the weekend. Residents were advised to dress in layers and avoid exposing skin due to risks of frostbite that can occur within minutes.
Under local heat ordinances landlords must provide adequate heating; violations may result in fines between $500-$1,000 per day.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provided guidance on identifying frostbite—including numbness or white/grayish skin—and hypothermia symptoms such as shivering or confusion. People experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention or move into warmer environments when possible.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
