Chicago City Wire

CHICAGO – With severe storms, heat, and humidity expected this week, the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) encourages residents to be prepared for 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 event of a storm or heat emergency to help alleviate the impact.

Two hundred fifty-six cooling center locations will be activated beginning Monday, July 29 through Friday, August 2 for residents to find relief from the heat. The National Weather Service in Chicago is forecasting a chance for thunderstorms and possible high temperatures in the lower 90s beginning on Tuesday, July 30 through Thursday, August 1.

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 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 to local media or download the Chicago OEMC App.

Cooling Centers Open on Monday, July 29 – August 2 (256 Available Locations Citywide)

The City of Chicago’s cooling areas located at six community service centers operated by the Department of Family and Support Services will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., including Garfield Service Center at 10 South Kedzie which offers cooling from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and shelter placement services around-the-clock.

Residents can also find relief during operating hours at one of Chicago Public Library locations, seven City Colleges of Chicago main campuses, Chicago Park District fieldhouses as well as pools and splash pads throughout the city. Police district stations are available 24 hours for relief from heat and shelter connection. For locations visit Cooling Centers - Map | City of Chicago | Data Portal or contact 3-1-1 for nearest location information.

City Colleges of Chicago Cooling Locations

DFSS Homeless Services outreach delegate agencies will have street outreach teams operating across the city.

Well-Being Checks

When temperatures climb to extreme levels it is important to check on relatives, neighbors, seniors and our vulnerable population. If you are unable to make contact you can request a well-being check by downloading CHI311 app visiting 311.chicago.gov or calling 3-1-1. If there is a medical emergency due to a heat-related illness call 9-1-1.

Robocalls To Seniors

The Department Of Family And Support Services will conduct robocalls notifying seniors in their network about extreme heat providing information on staying cool.

Heat Related Illness

Extreme sweating intense thirst nausea fatigue or weakness dizziness confusion can all indicate heat exhaustion or stroke.

At greater risk: infants young children people over sixty-five overweight individuals those working outdoors physically ill especially heart disease high blood pressure certain medications like depression insomnia poor circulation.

Medical emergency call 9-1-1

Tips To Beat The Heat

Chicago Department Of Buildings advises property owners building managers check electrical cooling equipment ensure working order before temperatures rise.

Sign up NotifyChicago alerts NotifyChicago.org

OEMC issues TEXT alerts lakefront notices business event issues:

Chicago OEMC App

For safety preparedness fingertips residents visitors encouraged download new app public safety tool provides information tips alerts weather forecasts radar etc.

App now available Apple Google Play stores click HERE visit website: Chicago.gov/OEMC

OEMC & Ironheart (Marvel)

OEMC teamed Marvel Comics reinvigorate communication public safety topics Fans recognize star campaign Riri Williams AKA Ironheart Marvel Images:cityofchicago.box.com/s/x3pqga3dh721woelnxn3hf9fy6gjve9v Goal partnership bring preparedness tips age groups themed messaging fan-favorite character Severe Weather Excessive Heat topics illustrated stories featuring Ironheart Beat Heat Ironheart - YouTube Additional info emergency preparedness visit OEMC website Follow Office Emergency Management Communications Facebook (@coemc), Twitter (@ChicagoOEMC), Instagram (chicago_oemc_911)