Chicago City Wire

CHICAGO – With heat and humidity being forecasted, the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) encourages residents to prepare for extreme heat and severe weather impacts. As extreme weather can be hazardous and unpredictable, OEMC and City departments are reminding residents and visitors of the resources available to help alleviate the impact so everyone can stay healthy and safe.

Public safety is the top priority of the City of Chicago, and OEMC will work closely with the National Weather Service in Chicago to monitor conditions throughout the season. Should emergencies, severe storms, or extreme heat arise, OEMC will coordinate the City’s response by working with departments citywide to assist residents and vulnerable populations. If the National Weather Service (NWS) issues an extreme heat warning, the city’s emergency response plan is activated.

OEMC continues to monitor weather conditions daily with NWS and issues alerts for advisories and warnings for extreme situations. To receive updates on heat advisories and weather emergencies, residents can register for the City’s emergency alert notifications at NotifyChicago.org, check OEMC’s social media pages, tune into local media or download the Chicago OEMC App.

The City of Chicago’s cooling areas located at six community service centers are activated from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. all week. Visitors are required to wear face coverings while in these areas; free face coverings are provided by the Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS). Relief can also be found at Chicago Public Library locations, Chicago Park District fieldhouses, and splash pads throughout the city.

Checking on relatives, neighbors, seniors, and vulnerable populations during extreme temperatures is crucial. For those unable to make contact with someone at risk, well-being checks can be requested via CHI311 app or calling 3-1-1. In medical emergencies due to heat-related illnesses, call 9-1-1.

An extreme heat warning will be issued by NWS if the heat index exceeds 105°-110°F for at least two consecutive days. Once issued, the city’s emergency response plan is activated.

Residents are encouraged to download the new Chicago OEMC App for safety information, preparedness tips, emergency alerts, weather information including current forecasts and radar. The app is available through Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

The Chicago Department of Buildings advises property owners and building managers to ensure their electrical and cooling equipment is functional before temperatures rise significantly.

Creating a Smart911 profile now includes vital information sharing capabilities with first responders during emergencies. This includes whether air conditioning is present in homes or apartments which aids first responders when assisting vulnerable residents.

Thunderstorms can bring flash floods, damaging winds, tornados or dangerous lightning suddenly. Residents should stay informed through official warnings before taking precautions during such events.

OEMC has partnered with Marvel Comics featuring Riri Williams AKA Ironheart in their new campaign aimed at communicating public safety messages effectively across all age groups through themed messaging about severe weather preparedness including excessive heat scenarios.

For additional information on emergency preparedness visit Chicago.gov/OEMC or follow OEMC on Facebook (@coemc), Twitter (@ChicagoOEMC), Instagram (chicago_oemc_911).

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