CHICAGO — With dangerously high temperatures forecasted, the Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) has issued a heat safety alert and activated the city’s cooling center network to help protect residents from potential health risks.
Starting this weekend and continuing into next week, the heat index is expected to exceed 100°F, with projections possibly climbing above 110°F on certain days, according to the National Weather Service.
City departments are mobilizing to offer support — especially to seniors, children, and residents without air conditioning — as the threat of heat-related illnesses grows.
Chicago’s Extreme Heat Response Plan in Action
OEMC is working around the clock with the National Weather Service to monitor conditions and provide real-time alerts. The city will activate its extreme weather response protocol if any of the following thresholds are met:
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Heat index reaches 100–105°F for 3 consecutive days
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Heat index exceeds 105–110°F for at least 2 consecutive days
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Heat index climbs to 110°F or more in a single day
Once triggered, city resources — including shelters, field houses, libraries, and cooling centers — shift into full operation.
To access live alerts and guidance, residents can download the OEMC app or sign up for notifications via NotifyChicago.org.
Where to Find Cooling Centers in Chicago
The Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) has opened multiple community service centers, available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. The Garfield Center will remain open through the weekend (Saturday and Sunday) to provide relief.
Additional cooling relief is available at:
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43 Park District fieldhouses
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143 splash pads and swimming pools
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Chicago Public Libraries (79 locations)
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City Colleges of Chicago campuses
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All 22 Chicago Police District stations (open 24/7)
For an interactive map of cooling centers, visit the City of Chicago’s Cooling Center Data Portal or dial 3-1-1 for assistance.
Seniors and Vulnerable Groups: Free Robocalls and Support Services
In coordination with DFSS, the city will use robocalls to inform seniors about heat risks and cooling options. Seniors can also access 21 dedicated senior centers, including Renaissance Court, which offers extended hours.
For those needing help checking on loved ones, the city encourages residents to request well-being checks via the CHI311 app, 311.chicago.gov, or by calling 3-1-1.
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Help for the Homeless: Call Before You Go
For shelter or transportation to safe facilities, residents or outreach teams should call 3-1-1 in advance. These two placement centers offer coordination — but not walk-in access — for shelter:
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SPARC (Single adults) – 2241 S. Halsted St. | Call: 773-526-3707
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EHARC (Families) – 924 N. Christiana | Call: 872-281-7610
Most DFSS-funded shelters will operate 24/7 during the heat wave.
Do you know someone at risk during extreme weather? Share this article to help your neighbors access cooling centers, wellness checks, or shelter services. Let’s make sure no one is left behind during Chicago’s summer heat.
