Dangerous Heatwave Grips Chicago with Emergency Measures in Full Effect

Extreme Heat Warning Extended Through June 23

Residents across Chicago, Illinois, United States, are enduring an intense heatwave that has prompted an ongoing Extreme Heat Warning in effect through midnight on Monday, June 23, 2025. With temperatures soaring well into the 90s and heat index values reaching between 100 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit, city officials are urging residents to take precautions to stay safe.

OEMC and City Agencies Mobilized for Public Safety

The City of Chicago and the Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) are actively coordinating with the National Weather Service to monitor weather patterns and mobilize support for residents. Emergency plans have been activated to ensure vulnerable populations receive necessary aid.

The Chicago OEMC App offers real-time emergency updates, weather alerts, and the locations of cooling centers. Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play, the app is a key resource for weather preparedness.

Criteria for Heat Warnings

OEMC will issue or continue heat warnings when any of the following conditions are met:

A heat index of 100°F to 105°F for three consecutive days

A heat index of 105°F to 110°F for two consecutive days

A heat index of 110°F or higher for at least one day

When thresholds are met, a citywide response is launched to mitigate health risks.

Cooling Centers Across the City

To combat the oppressive heat, Chicago has opened 288 cooling locations for public use on Monday, June 23 and Tuesday, June 24. These include:

DFSS Community Service Centers (Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.):

Englewood Center: 1140 W. 79th Street

Garfield Center: 10 S. Kedzie Avenue

King Center: 4314 S. Cottage Grove

North Area Center: 845 W. Wilson Avenue

South Chicago Center: 8650 S. Commercial Avenue

Trina Davila Center: 4312 W. North Avenue

Senior Centers:
Seniors can visit any of the 21 senior centers (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays). Renaissance Court operates from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Home Delivered Meals drivers will monitor elderly residents during deliveries.

Additional Locations for Relief:

79 Public Library branches

7 City College campuses

43 Park District fieldhouses

143 splash pads and public pools

22 police district stations (open 24/7)

Residents can locate the nearest cooling center by calling 3-1-1 or visiting the Cooling Centers Map online. Only designated Park District facilities offer air conditioning.

Check In on Vulnerable Neighbors

The City urges residents to check in on seniors, neighbors, and those with medical conditions. If a loved one cannot be reached, request a well-being check via the CHI311 app, 311.chicago.gov, or by calling 3-1-1.

Homeless Outreach and Shelter Support

Those in need of shelter can contact 3-1-1 for transportation and placement. Key resources include:

SPARC: 2241 S. Halsted Street (call 773-526-3707)

EHARC: 924 N. Christiana (call 872-281-7610)

DFSS-funded shelters operate 24/7 during extreme weather

Street outreach teams distribute water, hygiene kits, and information while encouraging unsheltered residents to access services.

Heat Safety Tips

To stay safe during the extreme heat, follow these tips:

Drink plenty of water; avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks

Stay indoors, keep shades down and windows slightly open if A/C is unavailable

Wear light, breathable clothing

Take cold showers or baths

Avoid using ovens and stoves

Never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles

Property Managers and Building Owners

The Department of Buildings urges property owners to inspect cooling systems. Buildings must provide in-unit air conditioning or an air-conditioned common area when the heat index exceeds 80°F, per city ordinance.

ComEd's Role in Heat Preparedness

ComEd has strengthened its infrastructure to ensure reliability. Customers should:

Report downed power lines immediately to 1-800-EDISON1 or 1-800-95-LUCES (Spanish)

Never approach downed wires

Text OUT to 26633 to report outages and check status at ComEd.com/OutageTracker

Safety at Beaches and Pools

Before heading to Chicago's beaches, check water safety updates. Swim only in areas with lifeguards between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Prepare with Smart911 and Stay Informed

Residents are encouraged to create a profile at Smart911.com to inform first responders of medical needs or A/C availability. For lakefront and business alerts, text:

CHILAKE to 78015

CHIBIZ to 67283

Stay connected through OEMC's official channels on social media and visit Chicago.gov/OEMC for full updates.

Stay Safe and Beat the Heat

With dangerously high temperatures expected to linger, Chicagoans are urged to remain vigilant, hydrate frequently, and use all available resources to protect themselves a