
As the City of Chicago braces for a plunge in temperatures with forecasts predicting frigid weather through Wednesday, officials are urging residents to seek shelter in the numerous warming centers that have been made available citywide. According to a recent announcement by the city, a cold front is expected to bring temperatures down into the teens, accompanied by dangerous single-digit and below-zero wind chills.
The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) is coordinating closely with the National Weather Service (NWS) to keep tabs on the weather around the clock and keep the public informed about any shifts. Cold weather isn't the only danger; refreezing melted snow may create slippery surfaces for pedestrians and drivers.
The city has made a sweeping effort to ensure that over 190 public facilities are available as warming centers, which include libraries, park district buildings, police department facilities, and City Colleges of Chicago, all available during their regular hours or designated times. The Chicago Department of Family & Support Services has also activated warming areas in six community service centers open from Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., when temperatures fall to 32˚F or below, according to the announcement. Additionally, should the NWS and OEMC declare extreme cold conditions, these service centers might extend their hours of operation.
Furthermore, 21 senior centers are ready to welcome the elderly, with the city utilizing technology such as robocalls to notify seniors about important safety information during such extreme weather events. For those without shelter, seeking warmth after hours can contact the city's 3-1-1 service which can connect them to vital services. Moreover, in these severe conditions, the city's Homeless Outreach and Prevention teams, along with street outreach partners, are proactively working to conduct well-being checks and connect individuals with warming centers and shelters. Chicago residents are also encouraged to look after those who are vulnerable in their communities including relatives, neighbors, and friends.
With road safety also a concern, the city has provided cold-weather tips for motorists to prepare their vehicles and handle unforeseen situations on wintery roads. It's advised that trips outside be minimized and when venturing out appropriate layers of clothing and protection against the cold be worn. Chicagoans should also make sure to keep their pets indoors during these extreme temperature dips. The city also offers a plethora of resources on winter safety and weather preparedness through the Chicago OEMC App and various text messaging services like Notify Chicago and CHIBIZ for emergency and business updates, consistently reminding the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.