Fewer Amtrak trains running Monday due to bitter cold

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- The temperature was beginning to drop on Sunday, January 26th, and bitterly cold air was moving in. We're under a Winter Weather Advisory for all of SE WI from until 6:00 a.m. Monday, mainly for blowing/drifting snow that will reduce visibilities and cause slippery travel. A Wind Chill Advisory for all of SE WI takes effect starting at midnight Sunday night through 9:00 p.m. Monday because of wind and cold that will drop wind chills as low as -35. A Wind Chill Warning for all of SE WI will kick in beginning at 9:00 p.m. Monday through Noon Tuesday because of wind and cold that will drop wind chills as low as -45.

Due to the impending bitter cold, Amtrak says on Monday, January 27th, three of the seven daily lines to Chicago will be cancelled due to the bitter cold.

Amtrak says there will be service Monday — but there will not be as many routes running as usual.

This, due to the cold’s impact on the railroad infrastructure.

Amtrak cancelled trains during the last cold snap earlier this month.

Amtrak says it will make a decision on Monday afternoon as to whether there will be cancellations for Tuesday.

Meanwhile, North Shore Fire officials are urging folks to take precautions if they have to be outdoors for any length of time during this bitterly cold stretch.

"Motorists should definitely be prepared in the event they have to be out in the elements for an extended time," North Shore Fire Captain James Mayer said.

Mayer suggests packing clothing in your car, and making sure your cell phone is charged in the event slick road conditions force vehicles off the road -- and if your car is parked in a ditch -- it's best to stay inside.

"With the slippery conditions, if you get out of your vehicle you could be putting yourself in a very dangerous situation. The fastest way to summon help is obviously with your cell phone stay in your vehicle to stay warm," Mayer said.

On Wednesday, we get a bit of a reprieve from the bitter cold. Wednesday's high temperature is forecasted to be around 14 degrees.