Stories about winter in northern Illinois
Learn about the important and often misunderstood coyote, including where they live, how they communicate, at Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Bolingbrook on Friday.
Fire officials have not yet determined the cause of a fire that destroyed a Fulton apartment building Sunday morning. Firefighters from nine departments battled the blaze at 201 11th Ave. throughout the day in wind chills as low as 14 degrees below zero.
Much has been in the news lately about “exploding trees”, caused by the extreme cold temperatures. But is this something to be worried about?
Obendorf: Since I have been shut up in the house, I have been working with a bucket of apples that Mike left for me. I started first with sliced apples and cheese. Then I went to cooked apples with cinnamon. Next in line was applesauce made in my blender.
The dangerous weather conditions will continue Monday with wind chills falling into the 15 to 25 below range, the National Weather Service said.
Nearly the entire state is abnormally dry or in some form of drought as a result of a shortfall of precipitation last year, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor released Jan. 15.
Plano Public Library’s winter programs include writer's group, yoga, book club, painting class and more.
With residents calling piled-up leaves an “eyesore,” St. Charles says they'll have to wait even longer for leaf pickup - possibly until spring. A series of weather-related delays have left fall leaves until winter.
A Severe Weather Advisory was issued as temperatures hit 30 below zero with the wind chill closing schools, limiting commutes and halting construction in Joliet and surrounding suburbs on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026.
Being in the cold too long can cause serious health problems. Hypothermia and frostbite are the most common cold-related health problems.
Escape the cold and stock up on farmers’ market goods at the inaugural Kankakee Farmers’ Market winter market on Saturday, Jan. 24 from 8 a.m. to noon inside The Majestic in downtown Kankakee.
As we get deeper into winter, it is important for dog owners to be mindful of these safety tips before exposing their pets to cold, snow and ice.
This month’s family fun Escape Adventure is ready at the Yorkville Public Library. Use the clues to unlock the boxes before the next group comes in. You only have 30 minutes.
Outdoor ice rinks are a great way to have fun, fit in some physical activity and enjoy fresh air this winter.
Three separate crashes involving multiple semi trucks were jackknifed in the median of Interstate 80 on Jan. 14, 2026 between Utica and Ottawa. Interstate 80 remained closed while crews could remove the wreckage from the accident scenes. A fast moving squall line with gusty winds and snow near white-out conditions caused the wrecks.
Bird watching can provide a lot of nature connectivity for all ages. It also boosts environmental literacy, awareness of nature, and stress-reduction through mindfulness and curiosity.
In the winter months, police often see an increase in stolen vehicles, the Joliet Police Department said.
Hundreds of bird enthusiasts brave the cold and rain to attend Four Rivers Environmental Education Center’s annual Eagle Watch on Saturday, Jan. 10, 2025 in Channahon.
Staying physically active is one of the best ways to improve your mental and physical health during winter months.
This year’s free, all-ages bald eagle celebration is set for 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center in Channahon.
From 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan 10, Viking Park will turn into a winter wonderland for Frosty Fest.
The Forest Preserve District of Will County has announced its 2026 event calendar, featuring a year of art exhibits, festivals, live music, educational programs and outdoor experiences across Will County.
Illinois is reporting its first influenza death in a child this season
The Plano Public Library has announced its upcoming January programming for families and adults.
A few smart habits can keep your home cozy and save money on energy bills throughout winter.
Woodlawn Arts Academy students will be showing off their theater and music skills this winter, with performances of “Mary Poppins Jr.” and winter music recitals both set for January.
Yorkville Public Library announces its January Adult Services Programs and Events
Winter is calling in Lake County’s forest preserves. Maybe that means ice skating with friends, racing down a sled hill or skiing through quiet, snow-covered trails.
Launch snowballs, test a blubber glove in icy water, explore the northern lights and warm up with hot chocolate at the Illinois State Museum.
City staff debated which public walkways should be prioritized after snowfall and if the town’s current equipment fleet could handle extra responsibilities.
Join the Will County forest preserve district for Trail Club, a winter walking series that promotes fitness and community.
The Lake County Forest Preserves’ Ranger Police will offer a snowmobile safety course from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 3, at the Operations and Public Safety Facility, 19808 W. Grand Ave, Lake Villa.
Although this Christmas will be warmer than usual, it is far from the record set on Christmas Day in 1982, when the temperature hit 64 degrees.
The month-long initiative took place from Oct. 24 through Nov. 24 at both the Bank’s Main Branch in Morris and its Wilmington Branch.
"To support students and families while our staff is away, we’re sharing mental health resources that will be available throughout the break,” Joliet Township High School District 204 said.
Here are a few facts about coyotes that might help you to better understand them, anticipate their behavior, and prevent negative encounters.
The community is encouraged to donate new or gently used coats, hats, gloves and scarves for distribution to residents who need them most.
Take time for yourself during a mindful, naturalist-led hike, followed by warm beverages and views of the Des Plaines River.
Saturday will start with temperatures in the mid-20s but then see those slowly fall throughout the day. By Sunday, wind chills as low as 20 to 25 below zero are expected.
While winter weather can bring headaches for commuters, for kids across Yorkville snow means it’s time to head to the nearest sledding hill.
The Illinois winter weather rule limits utilities from disconnecting eligible customers in who use electric or gas as their primary source of home heating
The two key ingredients which ultimately determine winter precipitation patterns are temperature and the storm track. And the outlook currently calls for colder and wetter conditions this season, which seemingly could translate to an active snowfall pattern.
With frigid temperatures sinking the mercury in the St. Charles area, the city is offering a few warming centers and safe havens throughout town.
With more winter weather on the horizon for the St. Charles area, here's how to avoid getting ticketed or towed.
Although we always have to be prepared for our safety, experts urge pet owners to take precautions for the furry members of their families, too.
Pick any day now through Dec. 31 to run, jog or walk a 3.1-mile route on one of 10 designated Forest Preserve trails.
The holiday season officially arrived in Kankakee when Santa Claus came to the city depot.
Those attending the village’s sixth annual Rockin’ Around the Tree Lighting on Thursday, can skate free by donating to the Shop with a Cop program benefiting local children.
Participants will gain some tips to create hygge and choose from a selection of library books to bring home which inspire joy and relaxation this winter.
Could it be a December to remember? Snow of 3-4 inches is possible by midnight Monday. Cold arctic air is forecasted later in the week.