Illinois Faces Dangerous Arctic Cold as Chicago Bears–Rams Game Could Become One of Coldest on Record
ILLINOIS — Brutal Arctic air is set to tighten its grip on the Midwest this weekend, and weather data suggests Sunday’s Chicago Bears home game against the Los Angeles Rams could rank among the coldest NFL games ever played at Soldier Field. Forecast guidance points to air temperatures in the 10–15°F range with wind chills dropping between 0°F and -10°F during the Sunday afternoon kickoff window.
While snowfall is not expected, the combination of extreme cold and strong winds will create hazardous conditions for fans, players, and stadium staff alike.
Wind Chills Could Dip Below Zero During Sunday’s Game
Latest European model guidance indicates that Arctic air will be firmly entrenched across northern Illinois by Sunday. Even during the warmest part of the afternoon, temperatures may struggle to rise out of the teens.
Wind gusts of 20–30 mph are expected, which will dramatically lower apparent temperatures inside the open-air stadium. Prolonged exposure under these conditions can lead to frostbite in as little as 30 minutes, particularly on exposed skin.
Not Snowy, But Potentially More Dangerous
Unlike classic snow-filled winter games, this system’s primary threat is cold stress rather than precipitation. The absence of snow does not lessen the risk — in fact, dry, windy Arctic air often poses a greater danger because fans may underestimate how quickly the cold impacts the body.
Medical experts typically warn that dehydration, hypothermia, and frostbite become more likely when wind chills fall near or below zero, especially during events lasting several hours.
How This Compares to Past Chicago Cold Games
Chicago is no stranger to extreme winter football, but early projections suggest Sunday could rival some of the most notorious cold-weather games in franchise history. While it may not surpass the all-time coldest games played in the NFL, conditions are cold enough to place this matchup among the harshest Bears home games in recent decades.
The final ranking will depend on actual wind speeds and how long sub-zero wind chills persist during the game.
What Fans Should Prepare For
Fans attending the game should take winter safety seriously:
- Wear multiple insulated layers and windproof outerwear
- Protect exposed skin with gloves, scarves, and face coverings
- Take breaks indoors when possible
- Stay hydrated, even in cold conditions
Transportation before and after the game could also feel significantly colder than forecast temperatures suggest due to wind exposure along Lake Michigan.
Cold Pattern Persists Beyond Sunday
This Arctic blast is part of a broader cold pattern affecting much of the Midwest. Below-normal temperatures are expected to continue into early next week, with additional cold air reinforcements possible.
Weather officials emphasize that even without snow, prolonged cold events like this can strain infrastructure, increase heating demand, and elevate health risks.
Stay with Waldron for continued updates on this developing cold snap, game-day safety conditions, and Midwest winter weather impacts. If you’re heading to Soldier Field, share how you’re preparing — and follow Waldron for trusted, no-hype weather coverage throughout the week.