Brutally cold wind chills are continuing to grip the Chicago area this week, and warming centers have opened around the region.
With wind chills reaching -40 degrees, frostbite can occur in minutes.
Senior centers, libraries, churches, and community service centers have opened their doors to provide places for people to get warm. Many locations provide meals, and have winter coats and gear available for those in need.
The thick, low-lying cloud bank over Lake Michigan in the background of this photo is a phenomenon known as Arctic Sea Smoke (or steam fog).
When bone-chilling air moves over the "warmer" lake water (which stays near 32°F until frozen), the water evaporates into the cold air. This vapor immediately condenses into a ghostly, swirling mist.
The dark spots are merganzers (ducks) Mergansers have a dual-layer feather system that works much like high-end winter wet suits.
4 mile crib was completed in 1891 to provide cleaner drinking water for the city by drawing from deeper, less polluted parts of Lake Michigan. The heavy steam fog makes it look like a ghost ship!
You can see the light tower on top, which still serves as a critical navigational aid for ships entering or leaving Chicago's harbors
It's much to cold to be out there taking many pictures.
