Chicago weather: Polar vortex 2019

Each year Chicagoans tough out a hellscape known as Chiberia, but early this winter has been particularly brutal. November saw temperatures dip in the 30s, when on average it only reaches 50 degrees.

The polar vortex, a sweep of Arctic air brought in record-breaking temperatures at the end of January for the city and Illinois. Temperatures in Chicago were recorded at 23 below zero—yikes.

Earlier in the week, the deadly forecasts prompted the governor to issue a disaster declaration for Illinois, equivalent to a state of emergency.

Follow along here for updates on the weather, how the extreme cold is affecting the city, what resources are available and what you can do to help.