How to Survive a Chicago Winter
By: 2SC Staff
If you are looking for information on how to get through a Chicago winter, you are not alone. Thousands of city residents each year brace for the onset of icy cold winds and subzero temperatures. When you factor in lake effect snow and short, dark days – wintertime in Chicago can be fairly depressing. While many native Chicagoans consider their ability to endure winter a badge of honor, the truth of the matter is most residents can’t wait for spring! Surviving wintertime in Chicago requires a special strength, even for the hardiest of individuals.
This article will provide 7 concrete tips to help you get through Chicago winters. The tips mentioned here are designed to help you both emotionally and physically. Remember that Chicago’s relatively high northern latitude lends itself to residents developing winter depression – otherwise known as SAD.
Are you ready to find out how to survive winters in Chicago? Let’s jump right in!
1. Layer yourself
Arctic winds are not uncommon in Chicago, which commonly blow off Lake Michigan during wintertime. When you go outside, it is imperative that you dress yourself in layers. This means wearing a sweater under your jacket and on brutally cold days, a pair of sweat pants under you jeans. Make sure you wear a hat that protects your entire head and ears. Earmuffs are not good enough. You will also want to have a scarf wrapped around your face. FYI: There are some months during winter, such as January and February, where temperatures barely see 25F. Make sure you dress accordingly.
2. Use the right moisturizer
Your skin is vulnerable to severe dryness during Chicago winters. This means you will need to properly lubricate in order to keep skin fresh and supple. One of the best products you can buy to help keep your face and body from flaking and cracking is offered by CerVe. Consider picking up the AM and PM face lotion and the total body lotion. Other moisturizers on the market may be helpful but CerVe is one of the only products to contain ceramides; a substance that provides all day moisture and restores the protective layer of the skin.
3. Try to get 15 minutes of sunlight
Many people choose to remain indoors on super frigid days in Chicago to avoid the biting cold. This approach, however, comes at an emotional cost. Specifically, we are talking about not getting sun. The absence of sunlight over the course of time can negatively impact your mood, contributing to the phenomenon known as seasonal affective disorder. By getting up a few minutes early each day and sitting by a window (i.e. 15 minutes) you can help to push back against winter depression. The sun’s healing light can help to increase serotonin levels, a brain chemical that helps to regulate mood. If you are not able to get natural sunlight, consider purchasing a sun-lamp specifically designed to combat SAD.
4. Focus on lower extremities
Many people who are new to Chicago winters focus on layering the upper parts of their body and forget to layer the lower extremities. Here, we are talking about the legs, feet and toes. On days where the temps dip below 20F, you may want to wear a pair of long-johns. You can get these at most department stores for a few dollars. You can also order these warm-staying companions online. Don’t forget to put on two pairs of socks – particularly if you will be waiting outdoors for a CTA bus or train!
5. Know travel conditions
There are some days during Chicago’s long winter where being outdoors is risky business. This is particularly true when the city gets hit with a polar vortex or a blizzard. Make sure you are aware of the weather during the entire winter season and tune into stations like WBBM News Radio for regular weather updates. Keep an eye on travel delays, which are common along Lake Shore Drive, the Kennedy Expressway and the Eisenhower during winter. Knowing this information can help you to plan your daily travel and limit your exposure to the dangerous cold.
6. Engage in physical activity
It is all too easy to lock yourself indoors during wintertime in Chicago. While this may feel like the right thing to do, it can actually make you experience cabin fever and worsen a case of SAD. To prevent depression from sinking in – plus belly fat from accumulating due to inactivity – it is important to try and get some exercise. Consider joining one of the city’s many gyms to partake in basic resistance training and cardio. Physical activity is a natural way to boost serotonin levels and increase endorphins. Getting out of your house and around other people is also a good way to push back against emotional isolation.
7. Remember winter is not forever
While it may seem like it at times, it is important to remember that winter will not last forever. The coldest, ugliest and bitterest months are typically January – March. Some people plan ahead and decide to take extended vacations during this time period. Even a short trip to a warm, sunny destination can help to lessen the long drudge of icy agony. Having a plan in mind for getting away before winter sets in is always best. And again, bear in mind that winter will eventually pass.
Chicago Winter Video
Chicago Winter Resources
City of Chicago Warming Centers
National Weather Service Chicago Forecast
Chicago Transit Authority Travel Information