Chicago City Wire

Chicago is gearing up for its annual St. Patrick's Day celebrations this weekend, which will bring large crowds and street closures. The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) has issued reminders about security measures and the importance of vigilance. "OEMC stresses the importance of always being aware of surroundings and reporting suspicious activity to onsite event security or call 9-1-1."

Weather conditions could pose challenges as the National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory from Friday afternoon through early Saturday morning, followed by a High Wind Watch until Saturday afternoon. Residents should be prepared for potential power outages and debris due to high winds.

To stay informed, residents are encouraged to download the Chicago OEMC app for updates on weather conditions, event information, and street closures. "Residents are encouraged to download the Chicago OEMC app in order to have the latest information on weather conditions from the National Weather Service in Chicago, event information, street closures and more."

The city will deploy resources across Chicago to ensure public safety during the festivities. An increased police presence will be noticeable at major events like the Chicago River Dyeing, downtown parade, Northwest Side Irish Parade, and South Side Irish Parade.

The river dyeing event is scheduled for Saturday morning with specific bridge closures for spectators. The downtown parade begins at 12:15 p.m., with street closures starting as early as 8 a.m. "Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade will step off at 12:15 p.m. at Balbo and Columbus Drive proceeding north to Monroe Street."

Additional parades include the Archer Avenue Parade on Saturday and both the South Side Irish Parade and Northwest Side Irish Parade on Sunday. Each event comes with specific parking restrictions and street closures.

Motorists should expect increased traffic around these events, while public transportation is recommended for ease of travel. Traffic Control Aides will assist in managing traffic flow.

Public safety remains a priority with OEMC urging people to report any suspicious activities they encounter during these events. "If You See Something Say Something" is emphasized as part of a national campaign.

For further details on emergency preparedness or public safety tips, residents can visit Chicago.gov/OEMC or follow OEMC's social media channels.