Chicago Chill – Temperature drop empties streets as students and commuters stay home

Cloud Gate, more commonly known as The Bean, never fails to attract attention from tourists and locals alike who fill the surrounding pavilion. As the day approached its high of -10 degrees. only a handful of intrepid sightseers kept the sculpture company in the bitter cold. (Credit: Chris Schulz)

Chris Schulz
Medill Reports

January 30, 2019, marked one of the coldest days in Chicago’s history, with an early morning low of -23 degrees and a frigid high of -10. Schools, businesses, and public attractions all closed their doors against the dangerous cold, encouraging everyone to stay indoors. Downtown Chicago, devoid of its characteristic bustle, looked eerie and abandoned.

Cloud Gate, more commonly known as The Bean, never fails to attract attention from tourists and locals alike who fill the surrounding pavilion. As the day approached its high of -10F, just a handful of intrepid sightseers kept the sculpture company in the bitter cold. (Credit: Chris Schulz)