Chicago City Wire

The City of Chicago has issued safety tips and provided multiple resources, including cooling centers, in response to anticipated severe weather and high temperatures this week. The Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) advises residents to prepare for the impacts of extreme weather.

Cooling centers will be activated from Monday, July 29 through Friday, August 2 at 256 locations citywide. The National Weather Service in Chicago forecasts thunderstorms and high temperatures reaching the lower 90s from Tuesday, July 30 through Thursday, August 1.

OEMC emphasizes public safety as its top priority and will coordinate with the National Weather Service to monitor conditions. An extreme heat warning will be issued if the heat index exceeds 105°-110°F for at least two consecutive days, activating the city's emergency response plan.

Residents can register for emergency alert notifications at NotifyChicago.org or use OEMC’s social media channels and app for updates. Cooling areas at six community service centers will operate from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the Garfield Center offering shelter placement services around the clock.

Additional relief can be found at Chicago Public Library locations, City Colleges of Chicago campuses, Park District fieldhouses, pools, splash pads, and police district stations. A detailed list of these locations is available on the City of Chicago Data Portal.

The Department of Family and Support Services will have street outreach teams assisting homeless individuals and conduct robocalls to seniors informing them about the extreme heat. Residents are encouraged to perform well-being checks on vulnerable populations and call 3-1-1 if contact cannot be made.

Heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke should be monitored closely. Symptoms include extreme sweating, intense thirst, nausea, fatigue or weakness, dizziness or confusion. In case of a medical emergency due to heat-related illness, residents should call 9-1-1 immediately.

To mitigate heat effects:

- Stay hydrated with water; avoid alcohol and caffeine.

- Stay indoors with shades drawn if without air conditioning.

- Limit use of ovens and stoves.

- Wear loose-fitting clothing.

- Take cool baths or showers.

- Do not leave people or pets in parked cars.

Property owners are advised by the Department of Buildings to ensure their electrical and cooling equipment is functioning properly ahead of rising temperatures.

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

OEMC has also partnered with Marvel Comics featuring Riri Williams (Ironheart) to enhance communication about public safety topics. This initiative aims to provide preparedness tips across all age groups using themed messaging with Ironheart.

For additional resources:

· Sign up for NotifyChicago alerts: NotifyChicago.org

· Download the Chicago OEMC App via Apple App Store or Google Play Store