Chicago City Wire

The City of Chicago is urging residents to prepare for a cold snap expected to bring below-zero wind chills on Wednesday, December 11, and Thursday, December 12. The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) will collaborate with the National Weather Service (NWS) to monitor weather conditions around the clock and inform the public about any changes in temperature severity or potential snow accumulation.

Chicago has organized over 190 public facilities as warming centers. These include selected locations of the Chicago Public Library, Chicago Park District, Chicago Police Department, and City Colleges of Chicago during business hours or designated times.

The Department of Family & Support Services will activate warming areas at the city's six community service centers when temperatures fall to 32˚F or below. Warming center locations available on December 11 and 12 include all Community Service Centers from 9 am to 5 pm, open library locations except for Water Works, open park district locations, and police districts.

Residents can find their nearest warming center by contacting 3-1-1 via phone or online at 311.chicago.gov. They can also download the Chicago OEMC app or visit the data portal link for a map of warming centers. If extreme cold conditions are declared by the National Weather Service, OEMC may extend warming center hours and other support services.

To stay informed about winter safety and preparedness, residents are encouraged to download the Chicago OEMC App. This tool provides safety information, preparedness tips, emergency alerts, weather updates, a DSS Snowplow Tracker, forecasts, radar data, and public safety information. The app is available on Apple App Store and Google Play Store or through Chicago.gov/OEMC.

Residents are reminded to ensure their family, home, and vehicles are ready for winter conditions. Severe cold temperatures combined with strong winds and snow can create additional hazards whether at home or traveling. OEMC issues alerts to keep people informed about weather conditions and emergencies.

Additionally, OEMC emphasizes vigilance regarding suspicious activity under the "If You See Something Say Something" campaign. Residents should report any suspicious behavior to onsite security or call 9-1-1.

For more information on emergency preparedness, visit the OEMC website at Chicago.gov/OEMC. Follow them on Facebook (@coemc), Twitter (@ChicagoOEMC), and Instagram (chicago_oemc_911).