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Your comprehensive, actionable guide to navigating emergencies in Chicago.
This guide uses AI-researched data and is being verified by our team. Routes and locations should be confirmed before use in an emergency.
Chicago's evacuation routes follow the expressway system radiating from the Loop. The Kennedy (I-90/94), Dan Ryan (I-90/94), Eisenhower (I-290), and Stevenson (I-55) expressways are the primary corridors. During mass evacuation, expect severe congestion at the Circle Interchange where these expressways converge downtown.
During extreme cold events, shelter in place is often safer than attempting to evacuate. If travel is necessary, carry winter survival kits in vehicles including blankets, hand warmers, sand, and a candle/metal can for emergency heat. The Lakefront Trail provides a car-free corridor but is dangerously exposed to wind chill in winter.
Communication: Establish primary (cell/text) and secondary (out-of-state contact) methods. Chicago's cell networks get overwhelmed during major events. Text messages require less bandwidth than calls. Consider walkie-talkies for family within 2-mile range.
Meeting Points: Primary: Grant Park (Michigan Ave side). Secondary: Your nearest CTA L station. Out-of-area: Pre-designated contact outside Illinois.
Roles: Assign roles: Person A - documents, medications, phone chargers. Person B - food, water, children. Person C - pets, vehicle/CTA cards, warm clothing packs.
Use this guide as a base for your personalized strategy.