Chicago City Wire

The City of Chicago is preparing for a significant drop in temperatures, with forecasts predicting conditions to fall into the single digits and teens from Monday, February 17 through Friday, February 21. The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned of below-zero wind chills and a chance of snow midweek.

The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) is working closely with the NWS to monitor these weather conditions around the clock. They are committed to alerting the public about any changes in severity or dangerous cold conditions.

To help residents cope with the extreme cold, the city has coordinated a network of over 200 public facilities designated as warming centers. These include locations such as Chicago Public Library branches, Chicago Park District facilities, police stations, and City Colleges of Chicago sites available during business or specified hours.

The Department of Family & Support Services will activate warming areas at six community service centers when temperatures drop to 32˚F or below. One notable location is the Salvation Army Freedom Center at 825 N. Christiana, which will be open as a 24/7 warming center through Tuesday, February 18.

For residents seeking nearby warming centers and their hours of operation, they can contact 3-1-1 via phone or online at 311.chicago.gov. Additionally, the OEMC provides an app that offers weather preparedness tips and alerts. This app is available on both Apple App and Google Play stores.

OEMC emphasizes that it's important for residents to ensure their families, homes, and vehicles are ready for winter conditions. Severe cold temperatures combined with strong winds can present hazards whether at home or while traveling.

The OEMC also reminds citizens to report any suspicious activity under the "If You See Something Say Something" campaign by notifying onsite security or calling 9-1-1.

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