Chicago City Wire

The City of Chicago has announced that warming centers will be open on Friday, December 13, in response to cold weather conditions. These centers include all Community Service Centers from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., various Chicago Public Library locations during their hours of operation (excluding the Water Works location), and Chicago Park District locations. Additionally, Chicago Police Districts will serve as warming centers.

For those needing overnight respite, the Garfield Community Service Center at 10 S. Kedzie is not available as a 24/7 warming center. Residents are advised to call 3-1-1 for assistance in such cases.

To locate the nearest warming center and check its hours of operation, residents can contact 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 provided by the city.

The Office of Emergency Management and Communication (OEMC) may extend warming center hours and provide additional support when enacting the City's Emergency Operations Plan for extreme cold conditions defined by the National Weather Service. For up-to-date information during extreme weather events, residents should visit the OEMC website.

The Department of Family & Support Services activates warming areas at six community service centers when temperatures drop to 32˚F or below.

Residents are encouraged to download the Chicago OEMC App for winter safety and preparedness tips, emergency alerts, weather information, and more. The app is available through Apple App Store and Google Play Store or via Chicago.gov/OEMC.

OEMC emphasizes preparedness for severe cold temperatures, strong winds, and snow hazards whether at home or traveling. Alerts and notifications are issued to keep people informed about weather conditions and emergencies.

In addition to weather preparedness, OEMC reminds residents to report suspicious activity under the "If You See Something Say Something" campaign by notifying onsite security or calling 9-1-1.

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