Chicago City Wire

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Chicago has issued a Cold Weather Advisory due to anticipated dangerous wind chills reaching as low as -20° below zero. The advisory is set to take effect from 9 p.m. on Monday, February 17, until noon on Tuesday, February 18.

These severe wind chills pose a risk of frostbite on exposed skin within just 30 minutes. Residents are advised to exercise caution when outdoors and wear appropriate clothing, including hats and gloves. The City of Chicago urges its residents to prepare for very cold temperatures continuing through Friday, February 21, with forecasts indicating temperatures dropping into the single digits and teens along with potential snowfall midweek.

The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) will collaborate closely with the NWS to monitor weather conditions around the clock and provide public alerts regarding any changes in severity or danger posed by the cold.

To assist residents during this period, the city has coordinated over 200 public facilities available as warming centers. These include locations within the Chicago Public Library system, Chicago Park District, Chicago Police Department, and City Colleges of Chicago during business or designated hours.

Specific facilities such as the Garfield Community Service Center at 10 South Kedzie Avenue will operate from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., while the Salvation Army Freedom Center at 825 N. Christiana will serve as a 24/7 warming center through Tuesday, February 18.

Residents can locate their nearest warming center by contacting 3-1-1 via phone or online at 311.chicago.gov. Additionally, information is accessible through downloading the Chicago OEMC app or visiting the data portal link provided by the city.

Warming center hours may be extended if OEMC enacts the city's Emergency Operations Plan for extreme cold conditions as defined by NWS guidelines. The public is encouraged to download the OEMC app for up-to-date information during extreme weather events.

The Department of Family & Support Services activates warming areas at six community service centers when temperatures fall below freezing. The Chicago Fire Department advises against using space heaters but provides safety tips if they are used. They also remind residents about carbon monoxide detector requirements due to increased heating demands.

To prevent frozen pipes, the Department of Water Management suggests ensuring warm air circulates throughout homes and keeping water trickling from faucets.

For additional winter safety information and preparedness tips, residents can access resources through various channels including social media platforms managed by OEMC: Facebook (@coemc), Twitter (@ChicagoOEMC), and Instagram (chicago_oemc_911).

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