News

Aug 28, 2023

City of Chicago :: Enjoy Chicago's Summer Weather Safely

CHICAGO – The Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC)

CHICAGO – The Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) encourages residents to be prepared for severe weather impacts during the spring and summer months. As extreme weather can be hazardous and unpredictable, OEMC and city departments are reminding residents and visitors of the resources available to help alleviate the effects so everyone can stay healthy and safe.

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 throughout the season. 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.

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.

Smart911

Create a Smart911 profile now to include vital information to share with first responders if needed. A new feature has been added to include if you have air conditioning in your home or apartment for heat emergencies. This is useful information for first responders if they are responding to vulnerable residents, particularly seniors. The edit your profile or sign-up, visit Smart911.com.

EXTREME SUMMER HEAT

While summer weather is something to look forward to in Chicago, we should all be responsible when it comes to excessively hot temperatures or extreme conditions that can lead to unhealthy impacts – especially over a duration of time. OEMC continues to monitor weather conditions daily with the National Weather Service (NWS) and issues alerts for advisories and warnings for extreme situations. 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 and Tips

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.

The City of Chicago's cooling areas located at the City's six community service centers are activated. The cooling areas operate from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. all week. Visitors are required to wear a face covering while in the cooling areas. Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) will provide free face coverings for guests who do not have one and want to utilize the cooling areas.

During hours of operation, residents can also find relief in one of the City's Chicago Public Library locations and more than Chicago Park District fieldhouses as well as splash pads located throughout the city. Click HERE for Cooling Center Flyers

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 wellbeing 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.

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.

Tips to Beat the Heat

It is also important to keep in mind that overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can result in a painful sunburn and can lead to serious health problems including skin cancer, premature aging of the skin, cataracts and other eye damage, and immune system suppression.

TORNADOS, STORMS, and FLOODING

Thunderstorms can come suddenly and can include flash floods, damaging winds, tornados, or dangerous lightning. It is important to be prepared to take precautions and shelter to avoid the impacts of these conditions. Stay informed and heed warnings from officials. Keep in mind outdoor sirens are intended for those outdoors to seek shelter.

Before a storm:

During the storm:

After the storm

Before a flood

During a flood

After a flood

Sign up for NotifyChicago alerts at NotifyChicago.org. OEMC also issues TEXT alerts for lakefront notices, issues affecting businesses or events:

For additional information on emergency preparedness information, visit the OEMC website at Chicago.gov/OEMC. Follow the Office of Emergency Management and Communications on Facebook (@coemc), Twitter (@ChicagoOEMC) and Instagram (chicago_oemc_911).

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