Chicago City Wire

CHICAGO – With continued heat and humidity, the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) encourages residents to be prepared 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 safety tips and the resources available in a heat emergency to help alleviate the impact.

With over 100 cooling areas available today, additional areas will be open tomorrow, Friday, and through the weekend. 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. 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 conditions warrant, an extreme heat warning will be issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) when the heat index is expected to exceed 105°-110°F for at least two consecutive days. Once issued, the city’s emergency response plan is activated.

To receive the latest 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 Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) has activated cooling centers at the City’s six community service centers from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For those needing shelter placement, the Garfield Community Service Center at 10 South Kedzie is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for cooling and 24/7 to connect residents to shelter. For additional information about the city's cooling centers please call 3-1-1 or visit Chicago.gov/FSS.

During hours of operation, residents can also find relief in one of the City’s Chicago Public Library locations and Chicago Park District fieldhouses as well as pools and splash pads located throughout the city. Renaissance Court at the Chicago Cultural Center at 78 East Washington will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

When temperatures climb to extreme levels, it is important to check on relatives, neighbors, seniors, and vulnerable populations. If you are unable to make contact, you can request a well-being check by downloading the CHI311 app or calling 3-1-1. In case of a medical emergency due to a heat-related illness, call 9-1-1.

The Chicago Department of Buildings (DOB) advises property owners and building managers to check their electrical and cooling equipment now to ensure it is in working order before temperatures rise significantly.

OEMC has teamed up with Marvel Comics featuring Riri Williams AKA Ironheart in their new campaign aimed at bringing preparedness tips and safety information across all age groups through themed messaging featuring this fan-favorite character.

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