Chicago Urges Residents to Prepare for Extreme Cold: Warming Centers Available January 13-15
The City of Chicago encourages residents to be prepared for a drop in temperatures beginning Monday, January 13 through Wednesday, January 15, with temperatures dipping into the teens and with single-digit and below zero windchill. The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) will work closely with the National Weather Service to monitor weather conditions 24/7 and alert the public to any changes.
A cold front moving through will quickly cool things off, possibly leading to slick surfaces as melted snow refreezes. Conditions will turn much colder beginning tomorrow with sub-zero wind chills expected during the next couple of mornings.
Warming Centers
The City coordinates a network of more than 190 public facilities available for warming. This includes participating Chicago Public Library locations, Chicago Park District, Chicago Police Department, and City Colleges of Chicago facilities during business or designated hours.
Department of Family & Support Services
The Chicago Department of Family & Support Services activates warming areas at the City’s six community service centers when temps are 32°F or below.
- The warming areas are open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with reduced locations on holidays.
- Under extreme cold conditions as defined by the National Weather Service and communicated by OEMC, warming center hours of operation at 10 S. Kedzie may be extended.
- Seniors are welcome at any of DFSS’s 21 senior centers. DFSS partners with OEMC to use robocalls to inform seniors of key information regarding how to stay safe during extreme weather. Visit Chicago.gov/Seniors for senior center locations and hours.
- Those seeking a warm place to go after hours can also call 3-1-1 to be connected with available services.
- Individuals requiring emergency overnight shelter should also call 3-1-1.
- DFSS Homeless Outreach and Prevention (HOP) teams and street outreach partners work proactively with unhoused individuals to connect with warming options, shelter, and well-being checks.
- Residents are also encouraged to check on relatives, neighbors, and friends during a winter weather emergency.
Warming Centers Center Locations Open Monday, January 13– Wednesday, January 15.
- All Community Service Centers (9am-5pm)
- Englewood Community Service Center – 1140 West 79th Street
- Garfield Community Service Center – 10 South Kedzie Avenue
- Martin Luther King Community Service Center – 4314 South Cottage Grove
- North Area Community Service Center – 845 West Wilson Avenue
- South Chicago Community Service Center – 8650 South Commercial Avenue
- Trina Davila Community Service Center – 4312 West North Avenue
- Senior Centers (8:30am-4:30pm) – visit Chicago.gov/Seniors for locations
- Chicago Public Library locations, visit chipublib.org for hours and locations
- Chicago Park District locations
- Chicago Police Districts
To find the closest warming center and hours, residents can contact 3-1-1 via phone or online at 311.chicago.gov, download the Chicago OEMC app, or visit the data portal link – Warming Centers – Map | City of Chicago | Data Portal.
Weather Preparedness and Weather Forecasts
For Winter safety and preparedness at your fingertips, residents are encouraged to download the Chicago OEMC app. The public safety tool provides safety information, preparedness tips, emergency alerts, weather information, DSS Snowplow Tracker, and more in the palm of your hand. Users will also have access to current forecasts, radar, and public safety information as well. The app is available through the Apple App and Google Play stores or visit the website, Chicago.gov/OEMC.
Cold-Weather Tips
- Motorists should take extra precautions to winterize vehicles and have necessary supplies on-the-go. Keep in mind, disabled vehicles or distracted driving can cause accidents, impact traffic, and others or requiring emergency services.
- Residents should know the signs and care of frostbite and hypothermia. For Winter preparation information, visit, gov/OEMC for details and links to other local, state, and federal resources.
- Avoid unnecessary trips outside if you must go out, limit the time you stay outside.
- Wear several layers of loose, warm clothing.
- Keep your head, hands, and feet covered when outdoors.
- Stay dry because moisture can damage the insulation effectiveness of clothing.
- Pay extra attention to your daily needs: get enough sleep, eat high-energy foods, drink warm beverages to help your body stay warm, and avoid alcoholic beverages.
- Don’t forget your pets, bring them inside during bitter cold and numbing wetness, to stay safe and warm.
Conclusion
The City of Chicago urges residents to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and well-being during the extreme cold weather. By following these tips and utilizing the available resources, residents can stay safe and warm during this period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the warming center locations?
A: The warming center locations are listed above. Residents can also contact 3-1-1 for more information.
Q: What are the hours of operation for the warming centers?
A: The hours of operation for the warming centers vary, but most are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the week and have reduced hours on holidays.
Q: What is the purpose of the Chicago OEMC app?
A: The Chicago OEMC app provides safety information, preparedness tips, emergency alerts, weather information, and more, making it a valuable tool for residents to stay informed and prepared during extreme weather events.
Q: How can I stay informed about weather forecasts and emergency alerts?
A: Residents can stay informed by downloading the Chicago OEMC app, visiting the OEMC website, or signing up for emergency alerts at org.
