Chicago City Wire

The city of Chicago is bracing for a second winter weather system expected to hit the area starting late Friday, February 14, continuing into Saturday, February 15. This storm may bring accumulating snow and will be followed by extremely cold temperatures beginning Sunday, February 16 and lasting through the following week. Residents are advised to prepare for potentially hazardous travel conditions during the evening commute and overnight hours.

The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) will collaborate with the National Weather Service (NWS) to continuously monitor weather conditions and inform the public about any changes in snow accumulation or dangerous cold.

Chicago has organized a network of over 200 public facilities as warming centers. These include various Chicago Public Library locations, Chicago Park District facilities, police stations, and City Colleges of Chicago venues that are open during business or designated hours. The Department of Family & Support Services will also activate warming areas at six community service centers when temperatures drop to 32˚F or below.

To find nearby warming centers and their operating hours, residents can contact 3-1-1 by phone or online at 311.chicago.gov. They can also download the Chicago OEMC app or access information via the city's data portal link.

The Department of Streets and Sanitation (DSS) is enforcing a winter overnight parking ban to facilitate efficient salting and plowing operations on streets affected by snowfall. DSS oversees more than 9,400 lane miles of roadway using a fleet of over 300 snow vehicles prepared with 425,000 tons of salt distributed throughout the city.

Additionally, property owners are reminded by the Department of Transportation (CDOT) to clear sidewalks adjacent to their properties. Business Affairs & Consumer Protection emphasizes that businesses must remove sidewalk snow as mandated by municipal codes; non-compliance could result in fines.

Residents are encouraged to download the OEMC app for real-time weather updates and safety information. The app provides access to forecasts, emergency alerts, radar images, and other essential public safety details.

The city urges residents to remain vigilant about suspicious activities as part of a national anti-terrorism campaign. Any suspicious behavior should be reported immediately either on-site or by calling 9-1-1.

For further emergency preparedness details, visit the OEMC website at Chicago.gov/OEMC or follow them on social media platforms like Facebook (@coemc), Twitter (@ChicagoOEMC), and Instagram (chicago_oemc_911).