Chicago City Wire

The City of Chicago is urging residents to prepare for a significant drop in temperatures starting Monday, January 13, through Wednesday, January 15. During this period, temperatures are expected to fall into the teens with wind chills reaching single digits and below zero. The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) will work closely with the National Weather Service (NWS) to monitor weather conditions around the clock and inform the public of any changes.

A cold front moving through is expected to rapidly cool the area, potentially causing slick surfaces as melted snow refreezes. Sub-zero wind chills are anticipated over the next few mornings.

To assist residents during this cold spell, the city has coordinated a network of more than 190 public facilities available as warming centers. These include participating locations such as Chicago Public Library branches, Chicago Park District sites, Chicago Police Department stations, and City Colleges of Chicago facilities during their business or designated hours.

The Department of Family & Support Services will activate warming areas at six community service centers when temperatures drop to 32˚F or below. Warming centers will be open from Monday, January 13 to Wednesday, January 15. Community Service Centers operate from 9 am to 5 pm while Senior Centers are open from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Residents can visit chipublib.org for library hours and locations or contact 3-1-1 via phone or online at 311.chicago.gov for information on nearby warming centers.

Warming center hours may be extended if OEMC enacts the City's Emergency Operations Plan due to extreme cold conditions defined by NWS. Up-to-date information can be found on the OEMC website during severe weather events.

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

It is crucial for residents to ensure their families, homes, and vehicles are ready for winter conditions as severe cold temperatures combined with strong winds can create additional hazards both at home and while traveling.

OEMC reminds everyone that if they see something suspicious they should report it either by notifying onsite security or calling 9-1-1 as part of a national anti-terrorism public awareness campaign known as "If You See Something Say Something."

For further details on emergency preparedness visit OEMC's website at Chicago.gov/OEMC or follow them on social media platforms including Facebook (@coemc), Twitter (@ChicagoOEMC), Instagram (chicago_oemc_911), Bluesky (@chicagooemc.bsky.social), and Threads (@chicago_oemc_911).