OEMC will continue to monitor conditions and alert residents of weather impacts including isolated severe thunderstorms and high temperatures
CHICAGO – With heat and humidity over the weekend the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) encourages residents to be prepared for severe weather impacts. As extreme weather can be hazardous and unpredictable, OEMC and City departments are reminding residents and visitors of safety tips and the resources available in event of a storm or heat emergency to help alleviate the impact.
Cooling Center locations will be activated beginning Monday, August 5 for residents to find relief from the heat.
Public safety is the top priority of the City of Chicago and OEMC will work closely with the National Weather Service in Chicago to monitor conditions. Should emergencies, severe storms or extreme heat arise, OEMC will coordinate the City’s response by working with departments citywide to assist residents and vulnerable populations.
If conditions warrant, an extreme heat warning will be issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) when the heat index is expected to exceed 105°-110°F for at least two consecutive days. Once issued, the city’s emergency response plan is activated.
To receive the latest updates on heat advisories and weather emergencies, residents can register for the City’s emergency alert notifications at NotifyChicago.org, check OEMC’s social media pages, tune to local media or download the Chicago OEMC App.
Cooling Centers Open on Monday, August 5
The City of Chicago’s cooling areas located at the City’s six community service centers operated by the Department of Family and Support Services will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Note: the Garfield Service Center at 10 South Kedzie from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for cooling and 24/7 for those needing shelter placement.
- Englewood Center – 1140 W. 79th Street
- Garfield Center – 10 S. Kedzie Ave.
- King Center – 4314 S. Cottage Grove
- North Area Center – 845 W. Wilson Ave.
- South Chicago Center – 8650 S. Commercial Ave.
- Trina Davila Center – 4312 W. North Ave.
Park District, Chicago Public Library, City Colleges of Chicago and Police District Locations: During hours of operation, residents can also find relief in one of the City’s Chicago Public Library locations, seven City Colleges of Chicago main campuses, Chicago Park District fieldhouses, as well as pools and splash pads located throughout the city. Chicago Police Department district stations are available 24 hours for relief from the heat and to be connected with shelter. For locations visit Cooling Centers – Map | City of Chicago | Data Portal. Residents should contact 3-1-1 for the nearest location and hours. Note: Only the Park District facilities listed on the data portal provide access to air conditioning, as some facilities are not air-conditioned.
City Colleges of Chicago Cooling Locations
- Daley: Monday-Friday 8 am – 8 pm, Saturday 9 am – 3 pm, Closed Sunday
- Harold Washington: Monday-Friday 8 am – 8 pm – Saturday, 8 am – 4 pm, Closed Sunday
- Kennedy-King: Monday-Friday, 8 am – 8 pm, Saturday and Sunday 8 am – 4 pm
- Malcolm X: Monday-Friday 8 am – 8 pm, Saturday and Sunday 8 am – 5 pm
- Olive-Harvey: Monday-Friday 9 am – 8 pm, Saturday 9 am – 5 pm, Closed Sunday
- Truman: Monday – Friday 8 am – 9 pm, Saturday 8 am – 9 pm, Closed Sunday
- Wright: Monday- Friday 8 am – 7 pm, Saturday 8 am – 2 pm, Closed Sunday
DFSS Homeless Services outreach delegate agencies will have street outreach teams operating across the city.
Well-Being Checks
When the temperatures climb to extreme levels, it is important to check on relatives, neighbors, seniors, and our vulnerable population. If you are unable to make contact, you can request a well-being check by downloading the CHI311 app, visiting 311.chicago.gov, or calling 3-1-1. If there is a medical emergency due to a heat related illness, call 9-1-1.
Heat Related Illness
When the temperatures climb to extreme levels, we encourage everyone to monitor themselves and others for the telltale signs of heat-related illness. Extreme sweating, intense thirst, nausea, fatigue or weakness, and dizziness or confusion can all be indicators of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Some people are at greater risk than others: infants and young children, people 65 years of age or older, pregnant people, people who are overweight, individuals who work outdoors and those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation. If there is a medical emergency due to a heat related illness, call 9-1-1.
Tips to Beat the Heat
- Stay hydrated – drink lots of water, AVOID alcohol, caffeine, sodas.
- Stay inside, if you do not have air conditioning, keep shades drawn and blinds closed, but windows slightly open.
- Keep electric lights off or turned down.
- Minimize use of your oven and stove.
- Wear loose, light, cotton clothing.
- Take cool baths and showers.
- Do not leave anyone (including pets) in a parked car, even for a few minutes.
The Chicago Department of Buildings (DOB) advises property owners and building managers to check their electrical and cooling equipment now to make sure it is in working order before the temperatures really start to rise.
Sign up for NotifyChicago alerts at NotifyChicago.org. OEMC also issues TEXT alerts for lakefront notices and issues affecting businesses or events:
- CHILAKE: For lakefront notices, TEXT “CHILAKE” to 7-8-0-1-5
- CHIBIZ: For alerts affecting businesses, TEXT “CHIBIZ” to 6-7-2-8-3
Chicago OEMC App
For safety and preparedness at your fingertips, residents and visitors are encouraged to download the new Chicago OEMC App. The public safety tool provides safety information, preparedness tips, emergency alerts, weather information and more in the palm of your hand. Users will also have access to current forecasts, radar, and other weather-related information as well. The app is now available through the Apple App and Google Play stores. To immediately download, click HERE or visit the website Chicago.gov/OEMC.