Disaster Proclamation Issued In Illinois Ahead Of Extreme Cold

SPRINGFIELD, IL — Gov. JB Pritzker issued a disaster proclamation Wednesday as the state prepared to deal with days of life-threatening wind chills across Illinois. Wind chills could reach -55 in northern Illinois, -35 in central Illinois and -25 in parts of southern Illinois as arctic air moves through the state through Thursday. The "life-threatening" cold could cause frostbite in less than 10 minutes, according to the National Weather Service.

Pritzker activated the State Emergency Operation Center earlier this week to support local government planning for the historic low temperatures. The governor's office said a state disaster declaration opens up a variety of additional state resources for communities impacted by the weather to respond and recover.

• IL Cops Arrest 'Elsa,' Ban All Crime During Bone-Chilling Cold
• Mail Delivery Suspended In Chicago, Other Parts Of IL Due To Cold
• Snow Days: How Districts Decide To Close Schools
• Metra Modifies Schedule Ahead Of Dangerous Cold

"This storm poses a serious threat to the well-being of people around the state, and we will use every tool at our disposal to keep our residents safe," Pritzker said in a statement. "This disaster proclamation ensures that the state of Illinois has the flexibility to effectively and efficiently respond to the needs of local governments during this extreme weather event."

The governor asked residents to make sure they and their families are prepared. Similar emergency declarations have been issued in Wisconsin and Michigan, according to the Associated Press.

"I also want the people of Illinois to know that our government is here to serve you, and our state workers and leaders are taking all necessary actions to keep our communities safe," Pritzker said.

Read more from the Illinois Emergency Management Agency

Top photo via Office of Gov. JB Pritzker