Chicago is once again facing dangerously cold temperatures, with wind chills plunging well below freezing and renewed concerns about polar vortex conditions across the region.
Prolonged exposure to low temperatures increases the risk of hypothermia, frostbite, respiratory complications, and other serious health issues, especially for seniors, children, people experiencing homelessness, and residents living in poorly insulated homes.
This month, it was reported that an 81-year-old woman in nearby Evergreen Park died due to cold exposure, marking the eighth cold-related death in Cook County this winter.
To help residents stay safe, the City of Chicago operates warming centers across the city, including several key locations on the South Side.
Here’s what South Side residents need to know.
South Side Warming Centers (Open Monday–Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM)
These warming centers are available during regular business hours and provide a safe, heated space to escape extreme cold:
Englewood Center
📍 1140 W. 79th Street
Garfield Center
📍 10 S. Kedzie Avenue
🕒 Open 24 hours, seven days a week
➡️ Available for emergency shelter connections
King Center
📍 4314 S. Cottage Grove Avenue
South Chicago Center
📍 8650 S. Commercial Avenue
Trina Davila Center
📍 4312 W. North Avenue
Additional Warming Locations
In addition to city-operated centers, Chicago Public Libraries and Chicago Park District facilities also serve as warming centers during extreme cold.
Residents are encouraged to:
- Check with their local library or park district facility
- Call 311 to locate the nearest warming center
Seniors: Extra Support Available
Seniors are welcome at any of the city’s 21 Senior Centers, which provide warm spaces, seating, and additional resources.
📍 Find locations and hours:
Chicago.gov/Seniors
Need Immediate Help? Call 311
Chicago residents can call 311 at any time to:
- Find the nearest warming center
- Request a well-being check for a neighbor, loved one, or friend
- Report no heat or inadequate heat in a residential building
- Access emergency shelter services
In life-threatening emergencies, always call 911.
How You Can Help
- Check on elderly neighbors
- Share warming center information with family, friends, and community members
- Call 311 if someone needs immediate assistance
- If safe to do so, offer temporary shelter to vulnerable neighbors
Helpful Resource:
Visit 311.chicago.gov or call 3-1-1 for the most up-to-date information on warming centers and emergency resources.
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