Chicago is hunkering down for a blizzard as the National Weather Service has slapped a Winter Storm Warning on the City, starting from 3 a.m. Friday to noon on Saturday – brace for up to 8 inches of snow and with wind gusts punching at 45 mph. Shovels at the ready, because it's not just snow: temperatures are expected to nosedive into the solitary digits, with wind chills scaring the mercury down to -20˚ through Wednesday, per the official warning.
According to the City of Chicago's Office of Emergency Management and Communications, they're all over it, with Acting Executive Director Jose Tirado saying, "OEMC is committed to working with City departments and our partners to assist residents, the unhoused and new arrivals to stay safe during the severe cold," and that they'll be cozy with the National Weather Service to keep tabs on the blizzard bash. The city's got a slew of warming centers ready to embrace those chilled to the bone, so for Pete's sake, don't be a hero and try to brave it alone – the DFSS is keeping doors open at its community service centers when the mercury dips below 32 degrees, and extra details are up for grabs on their website.
The Department of Streets and Sanitation is enforcing an overnight parking ban until April 1, 2024. Be sure to check the signs before parking, or you may find your car towed away. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) doesn't appreciate it when people shovel snow from their sidewalks into other public spaces. Please clear the snow from your sidewalk properly without causing problems for others. It's also important to keep public sidewalks free of ice to prevent accidents. If you notice any poor shoveling practices, please report them by calling 3-1-1, visiting the 311.Chicago.gov website, or using the CHI 311 app.
But it's not just about keeping the streets clear. The Chicago Department of Public Health urges all to batten down the hatches, help out your elderly or disabled neighbors, and keep your pets indoors. Despite space heaters feeling like a saving grace, the Chicago Fire Department is wary; keep 'em away from anything that could go up in flames, they say. ComEd, on the other hand, is ready and raring to get your lights back up should they go down – they’ve got crews and gear at the ready, and if your power winks out, just text OUT to 26633 to get the help ball rolling, as per their announcement.
Please keep this message in mind: Mother Nature is about to unleash a severe snowstorm, but Chicago is prepared to handle it. To stay safe, you can download the Chicago OEMC app on your smartphone, which provides a variety of emergency kits. Additionally, if you notice even the slightest smell of gas, evacuate the area immediately and call the Peoples Gas emergency number (866.556.6002) from a safe distance. The OEMC website has a wealth of information to help you weather the storm safely, so take a look and let's face this challenge together, Chicago style.
