Coldest Temperatures to Come
This week is officially going to be one of the coldest days in Chicago of this new year. With temperatures dropping as low as -10 degrees, it is safe to say, it is highly encouraged for people to stay indoors or be well covered if going outside. These freezing temperatures are no joke and without the proper clothing, it is possible to get hurt.
It is recommended to wear at least three layers of warm clothing such as long sleeve shirts, sweaters, and a thick jacket. As well as a winter hat and winter gloves. These weather conditions can be dangerous and its vital to stay safe.
While these freezing temperatures are extreme, they are not the coldest that Chicago has seen. back in 2019 the temperature made history as it dropped to as low as -23 degrees. And even further back in 1985, the temperature dropped to -27 degrees. This was officially the coldest temperature in the history of the windy city. This type of weather is not rare in Chicago which thankfully means the city is fully prepared for such things to happen.
Tesla’s Becoming Out of Service
It has been stated that many Tesla’s have begun to stop working due to the freezing temperatures. Many tesla owners have been complaining that their cars will not charge. “I’ve been here for over five hours at this point and I still have not gotten to charge my car. A charge that should take 45 minutes is taking two hours,” said Tesla owner Brandon Welbourne. Other drivers said that the freezing temperatures have drained their cars batteries way faster than usual.
Thankfully, Tesla has tips for maintaining their cars during these freezing temperatures. Tesla recommends keeping the cars plugged in. And make sure the cars battery doesn’t go down past twenty percent. Defrosting and adjusting the temperature in the car to warm for a couple of minutes before driving off can help warm up the battery more efficiently.
“Tesla recommends using Trip Planner to navigate to a charging location for at least 30-45 minutes before arrival to ensure optimal Battery temperature and charging conditions. If the drive to the charging location is less than 30-45 minutes, consider preconditioning the Battery before driving,” stated the Tesla Company.
Too Cold For School
Lastly, it has been stated that schools would be cancelled today due to the freezing temperatures. It is unsure as to whether they will also be cancelled tomorrow. All of the Chicago Public Schools have closed today. Chicago Public Schools has stated that it is very likely the classes will open again tomorrow.
“Canceling classes is always a last resort, as families rely on CPS not only for education, but also for meals, warmth, safety, and other necessities. We also know that canceling classes can cause difficulties for parents and guardians. Any decision to cancel classes will be centered on the safety and well-being of our students and staff,” stated CPS.
It seems that these freezing temperatures have affected many people so far. Like previously stated, freezing temperatures are not a joke and should be taken seriously. It seems that the temperature will begin to warm up by Sunday to an average of thirty to forty degrees. But until then it is important to stay safe and always stay as warm as possible to avoid injuries.
Written by Erika P. Cano
Sources:
NBC Chicago: Are Chicago Public Schools closed Tuesday? Here’s the latest from the district
NPR: It’s so cold, Teslas are struggling to charge in Chicago
NBC Chicago: How the upcoming cold fares to the chilliest temperatures in Chicago’s history
Featured Image Courtesy of spablab Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
Inset Image Courtesy of spablab Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
