The first home NFC Divisional Round playoff game for the Chicago Bears in 15 years is going to be a frigid one, with the team issuing a safety advisory for fans choosing to brave the sub-freezing temperatures to make the trip to Soldier Field.
The Bears host the Los Angeles Rams tonight for the right to face the Seattle Seahawks in next week’s NFC Championship Game. With brutally cold weather in the forecast, fans are asked to take extra precautions.
Bundle up, Bears fans
By the time tonight’s game gets underway (6:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. in Chicago), temperatures are expected to drop into the teens, according to the latest from FOX 32 Chicago.
Light snow is also possible, but the wind chill is what could really be a problem.
“The bigger issue is the wind chill which will make it feel closer to zero degrees, and below,” said FOX 32 meteorologist Mark Strehl. “The gusty winds are expected to stay with us through early tomorrow.”
A Cold Weather Advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service for the Chicago area through Sunday into Monday morning.
Bears ‘implementing enhanced game day measures’ to help attendees
As part of their safety advisory for tonight’s game, the Bears said they will be adding to the game day experience to make sure fans stay warm.
This includes installing several warming centers, which can be found:
- At Loop Landing (behind Section 146)
- On the Service Level near the Dr Pepper Patio
- NW colonnade (situated on the tiled landing at the top of the stairs by Gate 31) and on the south side of the colonnades
“While winter weather is part of the authentic Chicago game day experience, fans are encouraged to dress in layers, stay alert to changing conditions and prioritize safety throughout Sunday’s matchup,” the team added.
Make sure you’re prepared for another cold game ⤵️
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) January 16, 2026
Other guidelines the Bears mentioned include:
- Battery-operated clothing is permitted; may be subject to additional security screening.
- Fans may NOT bring in cardboard to sit or stand on.
- Cold-weather dehydration is possible; fans are encouraged to drink water throughout the game.
- Hot chocolate and coffee will be available throughout the stadium and via in-seat vendors, with chili offered at select stands.
- Hand warmers will be available for purchase at any Bears Pro Shop location inside the stadium.
- Blankets are permitted for Chicago Bears games at Soldier Field. You may carry them in hand or in an approved clear bag that meets the stadium’s clear bag policy guidelines.
The team also provided an extensive reminder of Soldier Field’s tailgating policies and what fans can and can’t use. Items such as firepits and open fires, deep fryers, tents and canopies are all prohibited.
What’s at stake tonight
Coming off last weekend’s thrilling comeback win over the Green Bay Packers, the Bears are looking for their first trip to the NFC Championship Game since January 2011.
The Rams, meanwhile, are looking to advance to the conference title matchup for the first time since winning the Super Bowl four years ago.
NBC will broadcast tonight’s game with Mike Tirico and Cris Collinsworth on the call.
