Cold threatens to break records in Chicago suburbs

As predicted, an overnight deep freeze is threatening to break area records for cold and schools are responding by canceling classes.

Temperatures at 6 a.m. were 7 degrees below zero at O'Hare International Airport, the National Weather Service reported. Wind gusts up to 20 mph make temperatures feel like it's 25 degrees below zero.

Because of the dangerous wind chill, National Weather Service officials have issued a wind chill advisory for all counties surrounding Chicago this morning. Wind chills of 20-30 below zero can cause frostbite in a matter of minutes on exposed skin and extended periods of exposure without proper clothing will increase the risk of hypothermia.

People venturing outdoors are urged to wear a hat and gloves to stay warm.

Temperatures are expected to reach a high of only 4 this afternoon. Temperatures will drop to 9 below zero tonight, with wind chills expected to make it feel about 20 below zero.

Schools throughout the suburbs, including some Hoffman Estates, Schaumburg, Des Plaines, Palatine, Lake Villa, and Arlington Heights, as well as all Chicago Public Schools will be closed.

In Waukegan, public schools will start two hours later than normal and dismiss at normal times, while Arlington Heights Park District activities are canceled until 1 p.m.

For a full list of closings, visit the Emergency Closing Center website.

Temperatures are expected to climb back up into the double digits Friday with a high of 22. Some snow is likely Friday afternoon and into Saturday.