Chicago Polar Plungers Raise Money For Special Olympics

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CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Freezing temperatures didn't stop about 4,500 people from jumping into Lake Michigan Sunday.

The water was warmer than the air along North Avenue Beach during Special Olympics’ 19th Annual Polar Plunge.

Executive Director of Special Olympics Heather Kundert said the cold weather may have rallied their fundraising as the group brought in $1.6 million, so far.

Groups stood shivering -- many in costume -- as they waited in one of two chutes leading towards the water.

Lumberjacks, Vikings, superheroes and animal onesies were among the outfits that became drenched and stuck to skin as participants emerged from waist-deep water.

A backhoe dug a hole in the ice and paramedics stood in the water at the ready in case anyone needed help.

Megan, who dressed as the snitch as part of a Harry Potter group, says in her four years plunging she's learned the right balance of clothing to wear.

It's about 20° warmer in the water than on the beach. #FreezinForAReason @WBBMNewsradio pic.twitter.com/wSMDd7mwCg

— Nancy Harty (@newsnance) March 3, 2019

"You don't want to have a lot on because afterwards it all freezes and you're just running out. But you gotta have enough on that you can kind of maintain your body heat while you're waiting in line."

Special Olympics will accept donations through the end of the month, as it works to reach its $2 million goal.

The organization uses the funds to provide transportation and uniforms for competitions for its athletes year round.