Chicagoans gather supplies to prepare for wintry weather, brutal wind chills
CHICAGO - An artic blast is hitting the Windy City and Chicagoans are doing their best to stay warm and be prepared.
Despite being used to the bone-chilling temperatures that occur every winter season, this time around, the wind chills are well below zero.
"I've been in Chicago all my life. I hate the cold, I hate the cold," said Latoya Teague.
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Many businesses were bustling with foot traffic as temperatures took a deep dive on Saturday, including local grocery stores.
"I stocked up on meats, veggies, and non-perishable things that go quickly," said Elisa Davis, who was among those visiting Pete's Fresh Market along West Madison Street.
"Actually, it's not that bad, because you know we're in Chicago and it can get a lot colder," Davis said.
Shopper Latoya Teague however, said she'd yield to Mother Nature.
"It's freezing and I spend as little time as possible in the cold. That's how I'm dealing with it," Teague said.
The Department of Streets and Sanitation has roughly 200 snow crews clearing roads, including salt spreaders.
Around 4 p.m. at 10 South Kedzie, one of the city's many warming centers, more than 20 people were inside seeking relief from the bitter cold.
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Whether you're working or simply trying to get to your destination, layers are a must when you're outside in this frigid weather.
"I got two bags of salt, ice salt. I have bins, my garage is kind of leaking," said Lotten Yeanney.
Home Depot in the South Loop also saw many customers. Temperatures will be in the negatives starting Sunday and much of the area will be under a wind chill advisory.